BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York is set to partner with State Farm this fall to market and sell individual BlueCross BlueShield health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act.
Beginning Nov. 1, local State Farm sales representatives will be able to offer BlueCross BlueShield plans to consumers who will be able to sign up for health coverage through Jan. 31.
The alliance builds off a relationship that started last fall when the two insurance companies began working together in five states — Texas, Illinois, Montana, Oklahoma and New Mexico.
Now the deal is in place in 19 states, including New York, where nearly 11,000 State Farm agents and their representatives will work with local BlueCross BlueShield companies. While it is in place in Western New York, it will not be available in the Rochester or Syracuse markets.
“State Farm’s agents are a welcome addition to our valued insurance broker partners and our own team of benefit consultants,” David Busch, senior vice president and chief sales officer of BlueCross BlueShield of WNY, said in a release. “We are taking our brand to familiar and convenient locations within the community, making it easier for individuals to purchase coverage, ask questions about their current coverage and get the most benefit of being insured.”
State Farm agents will sell BlueCross BlueShield plans both on and off the New York State of Health Marketplace. Effective coverage dates will begin Jan. 1.
Date: August 7, 2015