Did you know that over 32 million adults don’t have health insurance? Even seniors on medicare have trouble paying for the specialty medicine and services they need.
Nearly 10% of Utah’s population is uninsured, as well.
Mental health concerns have risen by 38%. Obesity has increased by 16%, rendering almost 30% of adults with obesity-related health risks.
If you’re struggling to meet your medical needs, this guide is for you. Discover several ways to pay for prescriptions and services in Utah.
How to Get Health Insurance in Utah
If you have chronic or multiple health issues, you’ll need to get health insurance in Utah. If you rarely experience health issues, there are ways to get medical care without insurance. However, health insurance is recommended, regardless of your health status.
There are a few ways to get insurance in Utah:
Employer-Based Health Insurance
First, you could get insurance through your employer.
Employers offer many types of plans. They may partner with a large medical network or offer plans through small health agencies. Some employers provide holistic-based healthcare plans too.
Many employers offer multiple health plans. However, smaller businesses may be limited to just one or two plans at the most. If your current health plan doesn’t cover all your needs, you can supplement your healthcare with private coverage.
Getting Health Insurance through the Marketplace
Your next option is to buy insurance through the health marketplace.
The marketplace is the best option for self-employed residents who make over the Medicaid income limit. The Affordable Care Act makes it possible for anyone to purchase insurance through the marketplace.
The biggest complaint about marketplace plans is the cost. Many residents struggle to find reasonably-priced insurance through the health marketplace. However, you may qualify for subsidies.
The health marketplace also has enrollment periods. You can’t apply year-round, so plan ahead!
Medicare for Utah Seniors
If you’re a senior aged 65 or older, you’re eligible for Medicare in Utah. Medicare covers everything from doctor’s visits to prescription medication. You can also work with your local social security office to pay for additional services.
You can always purchase supplemental private insurance to cover specialty medicine or services not covered by Medicare. Dental and vision insurance are less expensive than regular healthcare costs too.
How to Lower Your Prescription Drug Costs in Utah
Seniors can also lower medication costs in Utah. For example, generic versions of prescription drugs are less expensive. You can find discount pharmacies online too.
Try contacting the pharmaceutical company directly. Some companies have prescription assistance programs.
Only seniors on Medicare qualify for drug assistance programs. Prescription drug insurance is covered under Medicare part D.
Some local health clinics may provide low-cost prescriptions to low-income residents in Utah. Get in touch with a low-cost clinic to learn more about your options.
Medicaid in Utah
If you have Medicaid, then you already have access to prescription drugs.
Medicaid is a type of public health insurance. However, only low-income residents who meet a particular threshold qualify for Medicaid. This insurance is for low-income individuals under the age of 65.
You’ll need financial records that prove you meet the income requirement. Interviews and other protocols may be used to gauge eligibility. You can always call your state’s Medicaid office directly to speak with an agent.
Health Insurance for Kids
Insured parents can put their children on their employer’s health insurance. However, uninsured Americans don’t have that option.
Fortunately, low-income parents can apply for CHIP programs. “CHIP” stands for the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
Through CHIP, you can receive the following medical services for your child:
- Routine check-ups with a pediatrician
- Vaccinations
- Prescription medications
- Emergency medical services
- X-rays
- Blood work and other lab work
- Doctor’s office visits
- Vision and dental coverage
Some of these services are free, like routine check-ups. However, you may be responsible for co-payment costs. Co-payments are discounted for CHIP families.
Find a Community Health Center in Utah
Community health centers also provide low-cost medical services to residents.
For example, women’s community clinics provide the following services for free or little cost:
- Birth control contraceptives
- Birth control procedures like IUD
- Reproductive health examinations
- STD testing
- Prenatal care
- Baby vaccinations
- Breast exams
Look for community health clinics that specialize in all of the above, including general primary care.
General primary care includes:
- Routine vaccinations
- Health check-ups
- Mental health counseling
- Wound treatment
- Preventative care
- Antibiotics
- X-rays
- Ear cleanings and more
Don’t forget about low-cost dental care through community clinics and dental schools. You can also get low-cost prescription glasses through online services.
Seasonal flu shots are also available at most drug stores. Plus, you can buy plenty of low-cost health essentials at your local CVS.
More Ways to Pay for Specialty Medicine and More
Don’t leave any stone unturned.
When you’ve exhausted public, marketplace, and community options, look deeper. You’ll find private-based assistance through charities, religious institutions, and philanthropic networks.
It’s okay to be upfront about your financial situation. Plenty of Utah residents are in the exact same boat.
If you need medical services, explain your income situation to the hospital or medical office. They may have their own installment plans.
Some private practices let patients pay through Care Credit. This option works like a healthcare credit card. Many dental practices allow these types of payments.
You must meet the credit score threshold to receive Care Credit assistance. If you don’t qualify, try public assistance programs for low-income individuals.
Planning ahead helps a lot.
If you have upcoming medical needs, ask the clinic about pricing. Medical establishments should be upfront about costs.
For example, if you visit https://reverehealth.com/locations/, you’ll find pricing for all services. This will help you calculate your costs and understand how much assistance you need.
There are also medical debt forgiveness programs. These programs are privately run. Talk to the hospital about any financial aid for medical debt.
Get the Assistance You Deserve
Don’t prolong much-needed specialty medicine. Use this guide to discover the right coverage, assistance, and subsidies for your needs.
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