Wisconsin Ag Connection - Study: Co-op Health Insurance Working for Farmers

Wisconsin Ag News Headlines

Study: Co-op Health Insurance Working for Farmers
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 11/17/2008

It appears that the farmers and agribusinesses that signed-up for the new health insurance purchasing cooperative program developed last year seem to be pleased with the coverage they are getting. According to a recent customer survey of the Farmers' Health Cooperative of Wisconsin, members say the program has had a positive impact on both the cost and quality of health insurance coverage offered.

The survey found that over two-thirds of members reported improved benefits available to them through FHCW compared to the insurance plan they had previously. At the same time, 51.3 percent reported that their health insurance premiums were reduced under FHCW, while another 30.4 percent reported no change in premium.

Meanwhile, access to preventive health services also improved for FHCW members. Nearly 26 percent of respondents reported their prior coverage excluded coverage for preventive care, while another 37.5 percent said this coverage applied to their deductible. FHCW provides generous preventive care benefits, with first dollar coverage for many services.

FHCW was organized in 2007 to increase the value of health insurance available to farmers and agribusinesses through a collaborative effort led by the Wisconsin Federation of Cooperatives. FHCW partnered with the Rural Health Initiative of Shawano County to conduct 'Health Risk Assessments' of members in an effort to help them understand their own heath risks.

"As a rural health advocate, it's my job to help put people in touch with services and resources that can meet their needs," said Rural Health Initiative Director Rhonda Strebel. "Until the Farmers' Health Cooperative was launched, accessible, quality health insurance was not always easy for farmers to find."

The cooperative will be adding dental care as a benefit available to members in 2009.

Farmers and agribusinesses can find out more about FHCW by calling 800-539-9370. FHCW offers six plans with deductibles ranging from $300 to $5,000, a comprehensive, statewide provider network and coverage for work-related injuries.

Other Wisconsin Headlines