DES MOINES, Iowa — Hy-Vee Inc. is joining forces with Oscar Health to roll out a new employer-backed health insurance plan in the Des Moines market, aiming to cut costs for businesses and provide employees with concierge-level care at a fixed price.
Branded Hy-Vee Health with Oscar, the offering blends Oscar’s technology-driven insurance platform with Hy-Vee’s retail pharmacy network, grocery presence, and primary and urgent care clinics operated through Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care. The plan will be available Nov. 1, 2025, for coverage starting Jan. 1, 2026, to the roughly 400,000 workers in greater Des Moines eligible for individual coverage through their employers.
Employer-sponsored plans offered through the individual coverage health reimbursement arrangement (ICHRA) model can save companies 20% to 30% and trim annual employee costs by $500 to $1,000, according to the partners.
“Finding the right healthcare coverage should be as easy as buying milk at Hy-Vee,” said Mark Bertolini, Oscar Health CEO. “Our partnership reflects the innovation we are driving in the individual market to exceed expectations across the country.”
Hy-Vee President Aaron Wiese said the partnership builds on the grocer’s commitment to making “lives easier, healthier, and happier” by offering a healthcare solution that meets diverse budgets and lifestyles.
Plan members will receive $0 care at Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care clinics, including unlimited primary care, 24/7 urgent care, labs, x-rays, select medications, and access to specialists at MercyOne. Benefits also include discounted prescriptions at Hy-Vee pharmacies, personal support from Oscar Care Guides, and grocery rewards.
The companies say they plan to expand the program to additional markets over time.
