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What’s the difference between the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans and the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan? 

Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans are for individuals and families who may lack access to an employer-sponsored health plan, or those who may be overpaying or getting coverage that doesn’t fit their needs. This is especially important for those who are self-employed or part of farm households. 

The Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan is for small businesses and agribusinesses that want to offer health coverage to employees and their families. 

Both fall under the umbrella of Ohio Farm Bureau Health Care Solutions, but they serve different needs. They are two plans, under one trusted name-offering choice, affordability, and reliability for all types of Ohio Farm Bureau members. 

Will Farm Bureau Health Plans have any impact on the current Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan?

No. The Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan was created in 2017, and is currently providing health care coverage to over 2,300 OFBF members and their families. Health Benefits Plan will continue to successfully serve employers and small businesses, and there are no planned changes. The new Farm Bureau Health Plans is an additional health care option for Farm Bureau members.  

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.