Many people in the United States rely on company health insurance. There is something lacking in health benefits when working for a small company, part-time or low paying jobs. Premiums are too expensive. Luckily the government recognizes this problem and offers some assistance to everyone.
Insurance companies determined they reduce risk and rates by combining several small businesses with one insurance plan. Small businesses qualify for minimum employer contribution insurance that is potentially tax deductable. Small businesses can offer insurance to employees for a competitive lower cost like large corporations. Ask your local insurer or refer to the Small Business Administration's website.
Individual care to supplement or provide health care is often supplied through states health departments. This list offers information on who to contact in Utah.
Covered at Work
(888) 222-2542
www.health.utah.gov/caw
Primary Care Network
(888) 222-2542
www.health.utah.gov/pcn
Children's Health Insurance Program
(888) Kids-Now
www.health.utah.gov/chip
Medicaid Eligibility Online
http://health.utah.gov/medicaid
Utah's Premium Partnership is additional assistance for people with company health insurance, yet they cannot afford premiums. It reimburses qualified workers up to $150 for adults and $100 for children every month. Eligibility is based on family size and income.
The Health Care Safety Net is composed of specific agencies and locations statewide. They provide health care and services to uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable patients with barriers to health insurance. Their goal is to provide basic health care to everyone.
The Primary Care Network is administered by the Utah Department of Health. It only costs $50 a year and includes coverage for primary and preventive health care services.
CHIP or the Children's Health Insurance Program is for children under 19 whose parents earn less than 200% of the federal poverty level. It sounds like a person must be poor to qualify; however, a family of four earning less than $40,000 qualifies for assistance. CHIP is known for providing excellent service in Utah.
Medicaid helps cover medical bills. It is for the uninsured or people who cannot cover the costs of medical expenses. A person qualifies month-to-month. This is available in every state. My mother lives in Texas and though she is sufficiently covered by her regular insurance, she has multiple sclerosis. Experimental drugs are expensive. Shots can be thousands of dollars a month. Cost of the medication is unmanageable.
The absolute lowest cost health care is talking to someone working at any drug counter. They are frequently able to identify symptoms and recommend over-the-counter drugs. If sinuses feel swollen take a decongestant. If feeling stomach pains take an antacid or antibiotic. If suffering an extreme illness they have to refer people to a doctor for prescriptions. Planned Parenthood offers affordable health care and STD tests.
Affordable health insurance is available to everyone. The phone numbers and websites listed are specific to Utah; however, every state has similar programs. Contact the state department of health to find out what benefits are available. Even if you don't need it, it is worthwhile information for the future or friends.
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