Aspirus seeks to buy out WPS in sole ownership move of health plan

Metro Wire Staff

Aspirus has announced plans to acquire full ownership of Aspirus Arise Health Plan of Wisconsin.

The health care organization plans to acquire the shares from WPS Health Solutions, giving it full ownership stake in the Wisconsin-based health plan.

“To help our communities become as healthy and vibrant as possible, it is important for Aspirus to provide a full range of health services and support,” said Matthew Heywood, president and CEO of Aspirus, in a press release sent Tuesday. “From active living programs to clinic and hospital care to health insurance, we want to help families achieve and maintain peak wellness.”

Aspirus Arise was created in 2016 as a joint venture between Aspirus and WPS. Aspirus Arise has experienced strong growth through its innovative approaches to health insurance and transparent interactions with customers.

WPS ultimately agreed to sell its interest in Aspirus Arise to avoid a potential conflict of interest with its growing business as a federal contractor. Aspirus and WPS maintain a strong working relationship, and after the sale WPS will continue to provide the same support services, such as claims processing and customer service, to Aspirus Arise members. As such, the ownership transition will not affect Aspirus Arise employees, plan members or providers.

“WPS was proud to launch the health plan with Aspirus three years ago, and we look forward to continuing to provide administrative services for Aspirus Arise and its members,” said Mike Hamerlik, WPS president and CEO.

Aspirus is committed to providing affordable, excellent health insurance to Wisconsin communities. “We will continue to explore new ways to grow Aspirus Arise and enhance products and services for our members,” Heywood said.

For more information about Aspirus Arise, please visit aspirusarise.com.