Each state has different laws that regulate health insurance, and Utah is no exception. So whether you’re new to the state or have lived here for years, it helps to be aware of how these regulations will affect your health coverage. We at Health-Insurance.org want to make sure you are as informed as possible, so we’ve compiled some information about health insurance in your state. After you’ve read the below guide, take the next step and request a free quote so you can see what options are available to you.
Utah Individual Medical Coverage
Utah has a large set of unique rules governing the state’s health insurance industry. Here are a few such regulations:
- Individual insurers may turn you down for coverage if you have a health problem. The exception is for people who are not eligible for any other types of insurance; in this case, carriers must provide insurance.
- Utah law states that insurers must offer standardized plans, which include certain sets of benefits determined by the state.
- The state does not have a ceiling on the amount of money carriers can charge.
- Insurance rates in Utah are determined by the average rates for small group health insurance.
Health Care for Your Utah Family (UT)
There are two types of policies that you can purchase to cover your family. The first is a group policy, which you’ve probably heard of as an HMO, PPO, POS, or HSA network. These plans are fairly low cost, and your employer may even offer you coverage under their group plan. The second type of policy is an individual plan, which can be costly but can be tailored to fit your coverage needs.
In Utah, you cannot be denied coverage or charged more for coverage based on a health problem. If your family has recently gone through changes such as a divorce or adoption, you may have special opportunities to obtain group health insurance. Also, be aware that the past 6 months of your family’s medical history is open to review by carriers. If they find preexisting conditions, you may be subjected to an exclusion period (no longer than 12 months).
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Pre-Existing Conditions and Utah Health Insurance
If you have a preexisting condition, you will face many complications when applying for private insurance companies, such as elimination riders, which excludes coverage for a preexisting condition, as well as preexisting condition exclusion periods. Though the state puts a cap on what you can be charged due to your health status, age or other characteristics, you can expect to pay more for a policy if you have health problems or are over the age of 50. Additionally, when you renew your policy your premiums can increase as you age or as your health declines.
Don’t lose hope if you’re turned down by carriers. One of the best resources for people with health problems is HIPUtah (Utah Comprehensive Health Insurance Pool). Because HIPUtah only covers very sick individuals, if the applicant does not qualify as a high health risk, they will be given a certificate of insurability that will guarantee them coverage through a private company.
Obtaining a New or Different Health Plan in Utah (UT)
If you are changing jobs, COBRA, or state continuation rights, can help you maintain the benefits you held under your previous employer. Your new employer in Utah is not required to offer you coverage. If you’re lucky enough to get health benefits with your new company, be aware that your employer is allowed to impose a waiting period on you before starting your benefits.
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