The Origin Story of Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency

Every hero has an origin story. This is the tale of Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency (WDIA).

In the late 1980s, Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) recognized dentists were underserved. At that time, finding insurance policies to meet the professional and personal needs of dentists in Washington was cumbersome and confusing.

In 1990, with input from members, WSDA formed Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency (WDIA). WDIA serves the unique insurance needs of dentists. WDIA is an easier way for dentists to buy quality insurance coverage.

We work for the benefit of dentists to:

Simplify the process of selecting insurance policies.
Provide quality insurance at an affordable price.
Advocate for you when you file a claim.

Today, WDIA continues its mission of serving the dentists of Washington.

We’ve seen about everything. What we’ve learned is that the unexpected strikes at the least expected times. It’s why we support thousands of dentists in Washington.

Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency Board of Directors

Dr. Lilo Black

President

General Dentist, Kennewick

Dr. Bernard J. Larson

Vice President

Pediatric Dentist, Mt. Vernon

Dr. Blake McKinley

Secretary-Treasurer
Endodontist, Spokane

Dr. Chad Merkel

Member

General Dentist, Renton

Dr. Jaclyn Eliassen

Member

General Dentist, Spokane

Dr. Halee Hyatt

Member

General Dentist, Bellingham

Mr. Bracken Killpack

WSDA Executive Director

Seattle

What is Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency (WDIA)?

Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency (WDIA) is a Washington State Dental Association company dedicated to serving dentists in Washington by providing tailored insurance coverage.

We serve exclusively dentists in Washington State. With our deep knowledge of dental practice needs and industry requirements, we simplify policy selection, secure quality coverage at competitive rates, and advocate for you during claims.

Who does WDIA serve?

WDIA serves dentists in Washington State, including recent graduates, associate dentists, practice buyers, established owners, and specialists.

Whether you’re just out of school, transitioning to practice ownership, or running a multi-provider clinic, our non-commissioned agents focus on your unique needs to protect your livelihood and your dental practice.

What insurance products does WDIA offer?

WDIA offers professional liability (malpractice), business owners’ policies, personal disability, business overhead expense, practice loan protection, group medical, life, and a range of specialty policies including Employment Practice Liability, surety bonds, and cyber security.

Our curated suite of insurers ensures that every facet of a dental practice—from individual provider to team health benefits and practice-level exposures—is covered under one expert roof.