Oklahoma Human Services Approves Premium Rates for State and Local Employees

Strategic Insights -

The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) and the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) have approved premium rates for various insurance products, effective January 1, 2026. The rates were recommended by the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Board (OEIBB) and were accepted with the exception of HealthChoice, which was asked to re-examine its proposed rates. As a result, members will see no increases in 2026. The partnership between OMES and OHCA aims to provide dependable and affordable coverage to public servants across Oklahoma.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) and the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) have approved premium rates for health, dental, life, disability, and vision insurance products for state, education, and local government employees, retirees, and their dependents for Plan Year 2026.
  • All rates recommended by the Oklahoma Employees Insurance and Benefits Board (OEIBB) were approved, except for HealthChoice, which was asked to re-examine its proposed rates for 2026.
  • Members will see no increases in 2026, with the possibility of revised rates for Plan Year 2027.
  • The approved rates will take effect on January 1, 2026, and members will enroll in 2026 plans during the state's annual Open Enrollment and Option Period this fall.
  • Members can reach out to OHCA's Employee Group Insurance Division or OMES' Employee Benefits Department for questions about care plans.
  • The partnership between OMES and OHCA aims to provide dependable and affordable coverage to public servants across Oklahoma.

Statistics:

  • 2026 premium rates were approved for various insurance products, including health, dental, life, disability, and vision insurance.
  • 100% of rates recommended by OEIBB were approved, except for the proposed rates from HealthChoice.
  • 0% increase in premiums was seen for 2026 due to HealthChoice's re-examination of proposed rates.
  • The approved rates will take effect on January 1, 2026.
  • Open Enrollment and Option Period is expected to occur this fall for 2026 plans.

Sources:

  • Oklahoma Human Services news release.