Greater Washington Association of Health Underwriters
GWAHU Sponsors Presidential Sponsors Group Benefit Services
Senatorial Sponsors DentaQuest United Healthcare
Congressional Sponsors Business Health Services Lincoln Financial Group The Standard
Current GWAHU Website Visitors
Who We Are...
The Greater Washington Association of Health Underwriters (GWAHU) is a local chapter of The National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU). We are a group of health insurance professionals in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area, who recognize the importance of being involved in the health insurance industry and want to communicate any legal and social developments, not only to other health insurance professionals, but to the general public as well.
GWAHU's Mission Statement has always been to strive in obtaining new members and retaining current members by providing informative and relevant topics at its Member Meetings, through its Charitable Events and Public Service Projects, and by creating a networking environment conducive to the growth and success of its members.
A Message from GWAHU's new President, Teresa Conto...
Welcome, I have been in our business since 1996 which is to some of you, not long enough, and to others, a long time. My first position was as a receptionist for a small firm. I moved on to work for larger companies, learning the ropes more each day. I worked my way up to a position as a Benefit Consultant and have been an Advisor with Independent Benefit Services since 2000. I was promoted to Senior Advisor in 2008.
Most of us who enjoy our career did not dream of a life in Insurance Sales when we were little. Somewhere along the way, something about this industry sparked a curiosity within each of us, and here we are today. We choose to participate in a business that demands we grow, change and adapt…or be left behind. Whether it’s adapting to our client’s needs or the requirements of our legislature, this is an industry that insists we bring our best game, every day.
No matter what the reason, choosing this path was an important decision. For me, this provided the best opportunity to meet people, become educated about new and evolving issues, and to be an Advocate for others. I definitely enjoy my career. I have been fortunate to have been in the company of many brilliant people and have seen the affect our role as Advocate plays in protecting consumers every day.
I joined GWAHU to give back to the Industry that has afforded me so many opportunities. I personally think that all who pass the insurance licensing exam should be required to join. Our Association has so many things to offer. We provide educational tools, guidance, sharing of best practices and ideas, and networking with others who understand our role. An essential benefit is our National Chapter that has lobbied Congressional leaders on our behalf countless times over the years, and will continue to do so. Each year NAHU commits thousands of dollars to represent our interests on Capitol Hill. NAHU is 20,000 members strong, so that our voices can be heard.
Our local Chapters host monthly meetings from September through June. Usually, C.E. credits are awarded and the topics range from learning about new products, sales techniques and strategies to legislative updates from political leaders. Our Chapter provides the platform for members to network with each other and meet their carrier sales representatives - all while enhancing their education. Guest speakers have included the Maryland Insurance Commissioner, Vendor CEO's, Legislative Representatives, and Vendor Representatives.
We give back to our community through our annual Golf Event that raised $5,000 last fall to benefit "Cure Search", a local cancer research foundation. Every December, our annual Teddy Bear Drive provides car loads of stuffed bears to Children's Hospital to put a smile on an ill child’s face. In addition we sponsor other public service efforts such as the Winter Coat Drive, Adopt a Family For the Holidays, and Cell Phones for Soldiers. These are just a few outreach efforts, and we are always looking for creative suggestions from our members.
As we look ahead to all the potential threats that our Industry faces, it is imperative that we unite in our goal of preserving the rights of consumers to have a choice. In addition, we must ensure that they are properly educated on those choices in order to make informed decisions about a product/service that profoundly affects their family and their everyday lives. You and I may go about our days very differently, but the foundation for which an "Agent" stands for should be uniform. Being a member is a personal choice, but this is our career, our livelihood, our calling. Do your part; don't wait for someone to do it for you. I really hope to see you attend a meeting, share an idea, and help us speak with one voice! Warmest regards, Teresa Conto
GWAHU's June Meeting--Two In a Row with Over 70 Attendees!!!
We had roughly 70 people in attendance to hear MD Insurance Commissioner Ralph Tyler speak. In addition, our lobbyist Bryson Popham & NAHU’s Adam Brackemyre gave a brief update on their efforts at the state and federal level.
The meeting ended with a presentation to Matt Masone for his two year term as GWAHU President. Matt has provided excellent leadership for our local chapter and will continue to serve on the board. Thank you Matt!
Our next meeting will be September 16th. Have a great summer and we look forward to seeing you in September!!! GWAHU would like to thank the following Meeting Sponsors: Business Health Services Employee Navigator GBS The Standard UNUM
Photos: GWAHU Meeting attendees during Commissioner Tyler's presentation
Bryson Popham-MAHU/NAIFA-MD Lobbyist
GWAHU President Teresa Conto with Immediate Past-President Matt Masone
GWAHU's written budget and financial statements are available for review.
