UPP Program Underutilized
Jul 03, 2008 by Elizabeth Ziegler
Funds are available for 800 adults and an unlimited number of children
(KCPW News) It's easier than ever for low- and middle-income Utahns to get help paying premiums for their work-sponsored health plans. As of July 1, anyone who qualifies for Utah's Premium Partnership for Health Insurance Program, or UPP, now can sign up anytime. But there's a catch, explains Kolbi Young of the Utah Department of Health.
"A lot of employers are not offering health insurance to their employees," Yong says. "And so, with that the state is working to potentially expand the program to cover families who can access private health insurance. But that is still in the works. It's not available yet, but it is something that is being considered as part of health system reform."
The UPP program is largely underutilized. Currently, 201 adults and 350 children are signed up, though the state has allocated funding to help 1,000 adults and an unlimited number of children. The shrinking number of small businesses able to afford employer-sponsored health plans has called the effectiveness of the program into question. But the UPP Program is also suffering from a lack of exposure, Young says.
"There are less and less people that are aware that it is even available," Young says. "So we are really trying to spread the word that this is an option for families to get the coverage that they need."
The UPP program will pay up to $150 per month for health insurance premiums for uninsured U.S. citizens whose employers offer health benefits and who meet specific income requirements. For instance, a family of four can earn up to $2,650 per month to qualify.
Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2009 KCPW
1. Anonymous said:
Underutilized? Perhaps it's not necessary and the legislature should repeal another unnecessary welfare program.
2. jessica said:
Are you that ignorant that you are not able to see that this is not another welfare program. Maybe if insurance wasn't so expensive and employers weren't so stingy with wages more people could afford health insurance. This program is for those who don't qualify for government Medicaid. Maybe you should utilize more resources nad read before you speak.