Farm Bureau Health Plans
When can I purchase Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans?

Ohio Farm Bureau staff and agents across the state are working hard to be able to offer the new Farm Bureau Health Plans in the fall. This will make the policies effective Jan. 1, 2026. 

Editor’s Note: The Farm Bureau Health Plans are no open for enrollment. Visit the website to see the plan choices and to apply.

What will Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans cover?

Through a third-party administrator, Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans will offer comprehensive coverage featuring many essential health benefits, including: office visits, hospitalization and telemedicine; prescription drug benefits; preventive, routine and wellness services; maternity, newborn and pediatric care; mental health and substance abuse counseling and treatment; emergency room services; dental and vision coverage; outpatient services; rehabilitative services and devices; and laboratory services, just to name a few.

Are there opportunities to hear more about what the plans will offer?

Ohio Farm Bureau hosted a webinar this fall; please see the recording below. Billy Fields, director of state alliance operations at Farm Bureau Health Plans, gave more context to the plans and answered questions. 

 

What happens if a member gets sick? Will a member lose coverage?

Once accepted, Ohio Farm Bureau members will not lose their coverage as long as they continue paying their premiums and maintain their membership with Ohio Farm Bureau. Coverage will continue to be available without the threat of cancellation due to health conditions. However, premium rates could change over time based on the overall performance of the risk pool or as individuals age.

What if there’s a dispute? Who do members contact with a complaint or appeal?

Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans is subject to Ohio consumer protection laws through the Ohio Attorney General’s office. Additionally, the organization will voluntarily adhere to ACA-mandated appeal structures for coverage denials, including both internal and external review processes. To further ensure public confidence, Ohio Farm Bureau will incorporate a grievance process equivalent to ACA standards into its contracts. Any individual with concerns will have the option to file a complaint with the attorney general.

How does this plan compare to ACA Marketplace options in terms of cost and coverage? 

For many people who don’t qualify for ACA subsidies, Marketplace premiums are simply unaffordable. The Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans will offer a lower-cost alternative, often with significant savings over ACA plans – while still providing comprehensive coverage, including access to trusted provider networks and strong claims support. 

Can I keep my current doctors and providers with this plan? 

In most cases, yes. The plan partners with United Healthcare, a major insurance provider, giving you access to wide provider networks across Ohio. That means you’re likely to keep seeing the providers you already know and trust. It’s one of the most frequently cited benefits by current enrollees. 

Why should I consider switching if I already have a health plan? 

If you’re self-employed or working on a family farm, you may be overpaying or getting coverage that doesn’t fit your needs. This plan is built specifically for people like you, with competitive rates, reliable coverage, and less red tape. It’s designed to reduce financial stress and help more families focus on their farm or business without sacrificing their health security.

Is this option insurance? 

No. While the term “insurance” is often used broadly, it has a specific legal definition under state regulations. A fully insured product is subject to state oversight, whereas self-insured employer groups and similar models are not legally classified as “insurance.” State law now allows Ohio Farm Bureau to offer its members this new health coverage that falls outside the traditional insurance category. Because these new plans are not classified as insurance, Ohio Farm Bureau has the flexibility to consider individual health circumstances and design coverage options that better meet the needs of its members. These plans will be supported by contractual obligations, the resources of Ohio Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies, and reinsurance. Coverage will also include access to an expansive national provider network.

If I am an Ohio Farm Bureau member, but live in another state, can I still apply for these health plans?

The member must have a primary residence in Ohio. If they currently live in Ohio and move out of state, they can keep their plan as long as they remain an Ohio Farm Bureau member.

New and beginning farmers
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

Darke County Farm Bureau

Growing Tomorrow Grant
We’re just so thankful for the Farm Bureau and the foundation for helping put this together. And of course, the Boyert family for the vision they had with this grant. It’s jumping us forward 10 years. It’s unbelievable.
Nathan and Jill Parriman's avatar
Nathan and Jill Parriman

Clermont County Farm Bureau

Bringing the farm back to life
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Gretchan Francis's avatar
Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Youth pathways in Farm Bureau
It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

Clinton County Farm Bureau

Giving farmers a voice
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Select Partner Program
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

Advocacy
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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