Conferences
Resources for Saving Money on Healthcare Costs and Prescription Drugs
Catherine Sorenson, Jesse Ketterman, Lynn Matava, and Maria Pippidis
Summary
Health insurance is an important risk management tool for all people, but it is particularly critical for agricultural producers. Ag producers do important, but often dangerous, work. A University of Nebraska Medical Center study found that the average cost of a farming injury was $10,878 in medical care and $4,735 in lost work. Additionally, A KFF study found that 27% of agricultural workers purchase their health insurance through the marketplace and may be at risk of losing the subsidies that make that coverage more affordable. Given the rising cost of healthcare coverage and out of pocket health care expenses, managing these costs are likely to be top of mind for many producers. Some may even be considering forgoing health insurance to reduce these costs. The Smart Choice, Smart Use program provides evidence based strategies for helping people understand why health insurance is so important, how to use their insurance, and how to reduce out of pocket costs. Additionally, a new program resource addresses strategies for reducing out of pocket spending on prescription drugs, which is becoming a major concern for many people.
In this session, presenters will explain why health insurance is such and important risk management tool for agricultural producers. They will also explain the current Federal funding situation for the ACA marketplace subsidies. Finally, they will demonstrate resources that educators and community members can use to better understand their insurance and reduce out-of-pocket costs, especially for prescription drugs.
Details
| Conference | 2026 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | 30-Minute Concurrent |