Utah Insurance Blog

Utah Health Insurance Market Update: 2012

Here's what happening in the Utah health insurance market:

Health Reform: Nationally, there aren't many changes that will be apparent on the surface. The reform bill is encouraging efficiency and an increase in the quality of care in 2012. The state of Utah continues to improve it's defined contribution system in the group health insurance market.

HumanaOne has a new rating structure that keeps health insurance affordable for single-parent families! Their Enhanced Copay plan with a $1,000 medical deductible has become more affordable in 2012. They also have a *Cancer Cash Plan that's only $8.99 per month for a family of 5 (parents, age 45) for a $5,000 cancer cash benefit. It's a way to protect yourself financially against devastating medical costs and lost income while you recover from a battle that many people win. Get a quote for this plan now.

SelectHealth seems to have some competitive pricing on lower deductible HSA-eligible plans. This is a great way to receive tax benefits and lower your health insurance premium! Get a quote for their HealthSave product now!

Altius Health Plans has a new product called Peak Preference. It's similar to an HMO product, but you don't need a referral to see a specialist. Rates are about 15% lower than their main product. Great way to save some money and still keep good coverage! Explore your options instantly online.

Hospital Cash Plan / Supplemental Health Insurance: Currently I know of one plan that pays a daily benefit when the insured is admitted to a hospital. Call me at 801-679-0405 to find out more!

Dental Insurance: Dental Select of Utah has some of the most competitive dental rates in the Utah market. Explore your plan options!

Term Life Insurance: It's been super-affordable for a while, and rates are still near an all time low. If you haven't explored term life insurance as part of your long term financial plan, get instant term life quotes with no obligation.

If you have questions on what's happening in the Utah health insurance market, or would like quotes for any type of insurance, please email or call me at 801-679-0405!

*Kanawha Policy Form 70620 UT.

What Does Preventive Care Mean?

I've run into a number of Utah residents who want to understand how preventive care is covered under the new law. I recently came across an article in a SelectHealth newsletter that gives a good explanation.

*This article is provided by SelectHealth. For more information about improving your health, visit www.selecthealth.org/newsletters.

What Does Preventive Care Mean?

The goal of preventive care, such as regular checkups and screenings, is to help you avoid illness and to detect problems when they are most treatable. Many preventive services are now available at no cost to you. Examples of preventive services include the following:

• Examinations and/or screenings (for example, a mammogram, colon and prostate cancer screening, etc.)
• Flu and pneumonia vaccinations
• Screening laboratory and X-ray tests (such as Pap smears or cholesterol tests)
• Routine immunizations

Checkups may include tests performed by your doctor to manage a known condition, such as treating high blood pressure to prevent a heart attack or a stroke. Services performed to maintain a known condition are not usually considered preventive. Your regular copay, coinsurance, or deductible will apply to these additional services.

SelectHealth has always been committed to covering preventive services. However, not every preventive service is appropriate every year, and recommended screening guidelines may vary. Discuss your specific health needs with your doctor. If you would like to learn more about preventive care, visit selecthealth.org/stayhealthy/proactivecare.

If you are interested in finding out more about SelectHealth's individual and family health plans, please visit our page about SelectHealth.

Selecthealth Releases Their New Online Application for Individuals & Families!

Today, Selecthealth released their online application.

They are the last major insurance company in the Utah market to offer the ability to apply online. From what I've seen, it looks like its been worth the wait.

Saving the Best for Last

Compared to other insurance companies' online applications, Selecthealth is definitely in the top two (the other being HumanaOne). Their online application system takes you step-by-step through the quoting, plan selection, and application process.

Out with the Old and In With the New

Paper applications slow down the application process in more ways than one. Using the new online application will;

• Help to ensure that each application is complete
• Make sure applications make it to the review process sooner
• Ensure that the correct supplemental application forms have been submitted

It's not a bullet-proof system, but it's bound to make things much easier for people who apply for a Selecthealth medical plan.

Get free instant quotes online and get access to the Selecthealth application now.

Check your doctors, download brochures and more at www.UtahInsurance.org, a Utah Insurance Advisors site.