About McDermott Consulting

Helping Individuals, Families, and Businesses Since 1998

mcdermoot-why-us

Helping Individuals, Families, and Businesses Navigate Insurance with Confidence

Providing Medicare Guidance and Employee Benefits Solutions Throughout Buffalo, Elma, Kenmore, Western New York, and Southwest Florida

McDermott Consulting helps individuals, families, Medicare beneficiaries, and businesses make informed insurance decisions with confidence. Founded by Lori McDermott after a successful career as a National Benefits Consultant for large employer groups, the firm was built on a simple principle: helping clients understand their options and make informed coverage decisions.

As a women-owned insurance consulting firm, we are committed to providing personalized service, objective guidance, and long-term support for every client we serve. Our team works diligently to evaluate available options, simplify complex insurance decisions, and help clients find solutions that align with their healthcare needs, financial goals, and employee benefit objectives.

Today, our team brings more than 150 years of combined industry experience helping clients navigate Medicare plans, employee benefits, health insurance, and retirement transitions throughout Western New York and Southwest Florida.

Built on Experience. Focused on People.

An Insurance Consulting Firm Built on Trust, Service, and Experience

McDermott Consulting was founded on the belief that insurance decisions should be guided by expertise, transparency, and personal service. What began with Lori McDermott's extensive experience working with large employer groups has grown into a trusted consulting firm serving individuals, families, Medicare beneficiaries, and businesses throughout Western New York and Southwest Florida.

Over the years, our team has helped clients navigate changing healthcare regulations, evolving Medicare options, employee benefits challenges, and retirement transitions. While the insurance industry continues to change, our commitment remains the same: helping clients make informed decisions with confidence.

Founded on Industry Experience - Built upon decades of insurance and employee benefits expertise.

150+ Years of Combined Knowledge - A team of experienced professionals with diverse healthcare and benefits backgrounds.

Client-First Philosophy - Focused on education, guidance, and long-term relationships rather than one-time transactions.

Serving Western New York Since 1998 - Proudly supporting individuals, families, and businesses throughout the region.

Preferred Consultation Method

Meet Your Benefits Team

Experienced Professionals Helping Clients Navigate Medicare and Employee Benefits Throughout Western New York and Southwest Florida

At McDermott Consulting, we believe insurance decisions should be guided by experience, trust, and personal service. Our team works with individuals, families, retirees, and businesses throughout Western New York to simplify Medicare, health insurance, and employee benefits decisions.

Lori A. McDermott, AHIP

Lori A. McDermott, AHIP

Principal

Lori McDermott has been in the insurance industry for more than 25 years. She began her career with BCBS as a National Benefits Consultant for large employer groups. Lori is Accident, Life, and Health licensed, AHIP certified, and dedicated to helping clients make informed insurance decisions.

Rich McDermott

Rich McDermott

Vice President and CFO

Rich McDermott retired from the NFTA after 37 years and joined McDermott Consulting after earning his Accident, Life, and Health license. He brings extensive experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and operations. Rich helps support clients with a practical and financially focused perspective.

Dave Harris, AHIP

Dave Harris, AHIP

Agent

Dave Harris brings more than 30 years of experience supporting employers and their teams. He specializes in health insurance, employee benefits, and Medicare guidance. Dave is AHIP certified and committed to helping clients make informed healthcare decisions.

Nancy Janak, AHIP

Nancy Janak, AHIP

Agent

Nancy Janak brings more than 40 years of experience in the health insurance industry. Throughout her career with BlueCross BlueShield of WNY and Independent Health, she held leadership roles focused on provider and vendor relations. After retirement, Nancy earned her Health Insurance License and continues to help individuals navigate their coverage options with confidence and clarity.

Karoll Melendez, AHIP

Karoll Melendez, AHIP

Agent

Karoll Melendez is a Licensed and Certified Medicare Agent with more than 25 years of healthcare industry experience. Her background at Highmark BCBS WNY and expertise in healthcare administration help clients navigate Medicare options with confidence and care. Karoll combines her professional experience, business education, and commitment to service to provide trusted guidance throughout the Medicare process.

Theresa Roma, Ph.D., AHIP

Theresa Roma, Ph.D., AHIP

Agent

Theresa Roma brings nearly 20 years of experience in the insurance and benefits industry. As Head of Insurance Solutions at Wellthy, she has helped families navigate complex caregiving and healthcare challenges through innovative benefits strategies. Theresa holds a Doctorate in Executive Leadership and is passionate about helping individuals make informed Medicare and insurance decisions.

Melissa Sexton, AHIP

Melissa Sexton, AHIP

Agent

Melissa Sexton brings more than 18 years of experience in healthcare operations, client services, and employee benefits. Her background includes leadership roles with Pharmacy Benefit Dimensions and Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of WNY, supporting organizations of all sizes. Melissa combines her operational expertise, Medicare knowledge, and client-focused approach to help individuals make confident insurance decisions.

kim derk

Kim Derk, AHIP

Agent

Kim is a licensed Health, Life, and Accident agent who is AHIP certified and holds her NYS Health Broker Certificate. With a diverse background in real estate, banking, government insurance, and healthcare services, she brings a well-rounded perspective to helping individuals and families navigate their insurance options with confidence while delivering personalized service and trusted guidance.