Finding health insurance in Utah can seem like an overwhelming task. However, understanding a few basic terms and knowing what to look for can help you select the right health insurance company and find a plan within your budget.
Before you start shopping for health insurance, it’s important to first understand what health insurance is and then why you need it. We’ll review what you should be looking for below.
What is Health Insurance and Why do You Need it?
If you become sick or injured, health insurance will pay for the expenses. This type of insurance will also cover regular doctor’s visits and necessary care. Health insurance typically covers:
- Wellness checks
- Emergency services
- Laboratory services
- Hospitalization
- Pediatric care
- Prescription drugs
- Maternity and newborn care
- Mental health care
Even if you’re a healthy person, it’s important to have health insurance. Should you become sick or sustain a serious injury, your medical expenses can simply become too high to cover on your own.
Choosing the Right Utah Health Insurance Company
As you’re looking at different Utah health insurance companies, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before selecting one.
Premium
The premium is the monthly amount you pay to the carrier each month in exchange for coverage. While you may want to choose a plan that has the lowest premium, you might end up choosing a plan with a restricted network or even with higher deductibles.
Compare Networks
When you’re looking for health insurance in Utah, you’ll want to compare the networks covered by each provider. If you’re hoping to keep your monthly premium low, you’ll want to find Utah health insurance companies that have in-network providers. Seeing an out-of-network doctor usually costs more money.
For example, if you’re located in Orem and regularly see a doctor in that area, you’ll want to ensure that doctor is listed in the company’s directory. If they’re not, you may want to consider another provider. On the other hand, if you don’t have a specific doctor, you may want to look at health insurance companies that have a larger network.
Compare Out-of-Pocket Costs
Out-of-pocket cost is how much you’ll pay for covered services. This is the amount you’ll spend on your deductible, services not covered by insurance, copayments, and out-of-network care. Once you’ve spent this amount, your health insurance carrier usually pays 100% of the cost of covered services.
As you’re looking at different Utah health insurance companies, you’ll want to compare the different out-of-pocket costs from each provider. Selecting a plan that has a higher monthly premium, but a lower out-of-pocket cost may be a good idea if:
- You regularly see your primary physician or a specialist
- You’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or have small children
- You frequently need emergency medical care
- You suffer from a chronic condition
- You have a scheduled surgery
- You take expensive medications regularly
Or, you may want to consider choosing a plan that requires a higher out-of-pocket cost and a lower premium if:
- You can’t afford higher monthly premiums
- You’re healthy and don’t regularly see a doctor
Compare Benefits
Finally, consider the benefits offered by various Utah health insurance companies. Consider your specific situation and look to see if things like emergency services, physical therapy, fertility treatments, or mental health care are covered by providers. This can help you find a carrier that’s best for you and your family.
Contact Miller & Associates to Find the Right Plan
Finding a policy that’s right for you and your budget can be a time-consuming and confusing task.
At Miller & Associates, we’ll help you find a health insurance plan that’s right for you. We offer a variety of health insurance plans that are affordable and provide the coverage you need. We’re proud to provide comprehensive insurance services to the Wasatch Front and the surrounding areas.
Contact Miller & Associates to get a free insurance quote!
