Sponsored content provided by Ryan Saul, Director of Iowa Markets at Oscar Health

Small businesses across Iowa aren’t just part of the economy — they are the economy. They make up more than 99% of all businesses in Iowa, employing nearly half of the state’s private-sector workforce and serving as the foundation of the state’s economy.

But the rising cost of health insurance threatens their stability. In Iowa, the average annual premium for employer-sponsored family coverage exceeds $20,000. With margins already tight, that can make it hard for small businesses to thrive.

A new health insurance model is helping businesses across the nation to control costs. And now, Hy-Vee Inc. and Oscar Health, a leading healthcare technology company in the individual market, are bringing this solution to Des Moines employers and their teams.

New Plans Coming to Des Moines

Together, the Hy-Vee and Oscar solution saves Des Moines businesses money and gives their employees concierge care at an affordable fixed price at Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care clinics. Employees get access to a suite of healthcare and shopping benefits: unlimited primary care, $0 virtual and urgent care, plus they earn Hy-Vee rewards for in-store savings when they use care.

Starting November 1, 2025, Hy-Vee Health with Oscar* plans will be available for employers and employees in greater Des Moines.

How do these plans work?

With employer-backed coverage in the individual market, also known as ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement), employers provide a defined, tax-free monthly allowance for employees to buy their own plan. Employers who switch from traditional group plans see average savings of 20% to 30%. 

Through this arrangement, Des Moines employers and employees reap the benefits of:

• Cost control: Employers set a budget for health benefits 一 a major perk for businesses that value practical, cost-conscious solutions. 
• Administrative ease: Employers no longer need to manage group plans, reducing paperwork and compliance burdens. 
• More flexibility: With no minimum participation rates, these plans works for businesses of all sizes and can cover employees regardless of location and status 一 full-time, part-time, or seasonal. 
• A better experience for employees: They select a plan that fits their needs, with doctors of their choice, better prescription coverage, and at the price they want. 

A simple, smarter solution

In a state where small businesses power the economy, ICHRA is a critical solution to strengthen Iowa’s future. 

Click here for more information about how Hy-Vee Health with Oscar plans can help your business save time and money on healthcare. 

*The Hy-Vee Health with Oscar plan is pending regulatory approval. The descriptions of the plan features reflect the filed features of the plan that are under review by federal insurance regulators. Changes may occur.