FAQs: Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans

At some point in our lives, health insurance is something we spend a lot of time thinking about. How much is the premium? What does it cover? Can I keep my doctor?

Those who don’t have health insurance through their jobs are often left with few options that typically whittle down to two paths: get a plan through the federal marketplace or go without coverage.

Texas leads the nation in uninsured residents under age 65, and nearly 19% of Texans didn’t have insurance as of 2022, according to Census Bureau data. Those who do have federal marketplace coverage often experience pain points with the coverage, such as expensive premiums and limited networks.

In 2021, the Texas Legislature approved House Bill 3924, allowing certain organizations like Texas Farm Bureau to provide its members with health coverage options. That marked the beginning of Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans.

“This is a way to help our members, reduce [the number of] uninsured Texans, support rural hospitals, and make sure rural communities have access to the same standards and services as other parts of the state,” Si Cook, Texas Farm Bureau executive director and chief operating officer, told Texas Farm Bureau’s Texas Agriculture Daily in July 2022.

Learn more about Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans, weigh your options, and get your health insurance FAQs answered.

How Are Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans Different From Traditional Health Insurance?

Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans are not traditional health insurance, so they don’t meet the minimum requirements of the Affordable Care Act. (This differs from employer-sponsored health insurance or plans offered through the federal marketplace, most of which are required to follow the ACA.) Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans rate applicants on their personal medical history, which can lead to more affordable coverage, depending on the person.

What Do These Plans Cover?

Although these plans are not traditional insurance, they cover several standard health benefits. Some of the main coverages include:

• Office visits
• Preventive, routine, and wellness services
• Maternity, newborn, and pediatric care
• Hospitalization
• Emergency room services
• Rehabilitative services

For a complete look at coverage, look at the plan’s details before enrolling.

Do I Have to Be a Texas Farm Bureau Member to Enroll in a Plan?

Yes, you must be a member to enroll in a Texas Farm Bureau Health Plan. However, you don’t have to be a member to get a quote. Learn more about the benefits of being one of Texas Farm Bureau’s 500,000 members.

Will My Plan Be Canceled If I Have a Major Health Issue After I Enroll?

No, you cannot lose coverage due to a new medical issue once you’ve completed the underwriting requirements and paid the first invoice and subsequent premium payments. There are only four ways a plan can be terminated:

• A premium is not paid
• A member requests cancellation
• Texas Farm Bureau membership is not renewed
• There’s misrepresentation during the application process

When Can I Enroll?

There’s no enrollment period for Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans. That means you can apply at any time throughout the year — great news if you’ve missed the Jan. 15 open enrollment deadline for federal marketplace plans.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Texas Farm Bureau Health Plan?

It takes about a half hour to complete the application. If medical records are needed, you’ll need to contact your health care provider and then email, fax, or mail them to Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans. Typically, it takes about seven to 10 business days to hear back.

Can I Keep My Doctor?

Members who enroll in Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans have access to the extensive UnitedHealth Care Choice Plus network. You can check to see if your doctor, or preferred hospital, is included in the network through the find-a-provider link or by calling 877.500.0140.

Health insurance can be confusing. Erase the mystery by learning the lingo with this guide to health insurance terminology.

Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation.