University of Utah Health Insurance Plans in Kearns, Utah

Updated July 2026 · UtahPlanFinder.com — Licensed Health Insurance Producer (NPN #21249133)

University of Utah Health offers HMO and EPO plans on HealthCare.gov in Kearns, Utah's Rating Area 3, for the 2026 plan year.
Kearns residents benefit from access to the University of Utah Hospital and Clinics, a major acute care facility in Salt Lake City.
Utah expanded Medicaid in 2020, allowing adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify for coverage.
In 2026, 5 carriers, including University of Utah Health, offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, covering Salt Lake County.

Navigating health insurance options in Kearns, Utah, especially when considering specific carriers like University of Utah Health, requires understanding local availability and plan structures. For the 2026 plan year, University of Utah Health provides Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans to residents in Kearns through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. These plans are designed to offer comprehensive coverage within a defined network of healthcare providers, including the esteemed University of Utah Hospital and Clinics system. As PPO plans are not available on-exchange in Utah, your marketplace choice will focus on these network types. Understanding the specific benefits, network access, and cost-sharing associated with University of Utah Health plans can help you make an informed decision for your healthcare needs in Kearns.

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What University of Utah Health Plans Are Available in Kearns?

University of Utah Health offers a range of Affordable Care Act (ACA)-compliant health insurance plans in Kearns, Utah, primarily through the HealthCare.gov marketplace. These plans include both Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) structures. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans: With an HMO, you typically choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the University of Utah Health network who coordinates all your care. Referrals are generally required to see specialists. HMOs often have lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a coordinated care approach. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) Plans: EPO plans offer more flexibility than HMOs, as you usually don't need a referral to see a specialist. However, you must stay within the plan's network of providers, except in emergencies. Like HMOs, PPO plans are not available on-exchange in Utah, so EPOs provide a valuable alternative for those seeking broader in-network access without the need for PCP referrals. All University of Utah Health marketplace plans cover the ten essential health benefits mandated by the ACA, including preventive care, emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, mental health services, and maternity care.

Understanding Your Healthcare Options in Kearns, Utah

Kearns, located within Salt Lake County, is part of Utah's Rating Area 3, which also covers Davis, Summit, Tooele, and Wasatch counties. This broad rating area means that insurance plan availability and pricing are consistent across these five counties. According to U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, Kearns and the wider Salt Lake County area have a population of 1,196,523, with a median income of $97,494 and an uninsured rate of 9.2%. These demographics highlight the importance of accessible and affordable health insurance options for a significant portion of the community. Residents seeking medical care in Salt Lake County have access to a comprehensive network of hospitals. University of Utah Hospital and Clinics, a major acute care facility in Salt Lake City, is a cornerstone of healthcare in the region and a key provider for those with University of Utah Health plans. Other notable hospitals in Salt Lake County include Holy Cross Hospital - Salt Lake, Lds Hospital, Intermountain Medical Center, Intermountain Health Alta View Hospital, and St Mark's Hospital. These facilities offer a wide range of services, from routine care to specialized treatments.

Medicaid and CHIP in Utah

Utah expanded Medicaid in 2020 through a ballot initiative, a critical difference from states like Texas. This means adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Utah Medicaid. For pregnant women, the income threshold is 144% FPL, providing coverage for prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. Uninsured children in households up to 200% FPL may qualify for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs provide vital safety nets for low-income individuals and families, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

Health Insurance Carriers in Kearns

For the 2026 plan year, residents of Kearns, Utah, have a competitive marketplace for health insurance. In 2026, 5 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, which covers Davis, Salt Lake, Summit, Tooele, and Wasatch counties. University of Utah Health is one of these confirmed carriers. The confirmed carriers available on HealthCare.gov in Kearns for 2026 include:

BridgeSpan Health Company
Imperial Health Plan of Utah
Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah
Select Health
University of Utah Health Plans

When choosing a plan, it's essential to compare not only premiums but also deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums. Checking if your preferred doctors and any necessary specialists are in-network with the specific plan is also crucial for minimizing unexpected costs.

Making Your Health Insurance Decision in Kearns

Choosing the right University of Utah Health plan, or any other plan, in Kearns depends on your individual health needs, financial situation, and preferred access to care. Consider the following steps:

Your Income Level (as % FPL)	Recommended Action / Plan Type	Key Benefit
Below 138% FPL	Apply for Utah Medicaid	Comprehensive coverage with no premiums or very low out-of-pocket costs.
100% - 250% FPL	Explore Silver-tier plans with Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)	Lower deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums in addition to premium subsidies.
100% - 400% FPL	Utilize Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs)	Reduces your monthly health insurance premium for any metal tier (Bronze, Silver, Gold).
Above 400% FPL	Compare Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans based on expected healthcare use	Full premium responsibility, but still access to ACA-compliant plans and guaranteed coverage.

For those who anticipate frequent doctor visits or need regular prescriptions, a Gold plan might offer lower out-of-pocket costs, despite higher monthly premiums. Conversely, a Bronze plan typically has lower premiums but higher deductibles, suitable for those who primarily need catastrophic coverage. Silver plans strike a balance, and with CSRs, can offer significant value for eligible individuals. A licensed health insurance producer can provide personalized guidance, helping you compare University of Utah Health plans alongside other carriers, understand your subsidy eligibility, and enroll in a plan that best fits your specific circumstances, all at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of University of Utah Health plans are available in Kearns?

In Kearns, University of Utah Health primarily offers Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans through HealthCare.gov. These plans provide access to a network of local doctors, specialists, and hospitals, including the University of Utah Hospital and Clinics system. PPO plans are not available on the Utah marketplace.

Can I get a subsidy for University of Utah Health plans in Kearns?

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs) to lower your monthly premiums. Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) are also available for those with incomes up to 250% FPL who choose Silver-tier plans, further reducing out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays.

Is University of Utah Hospital and Clinics covered by University of Utah Health plans?

Yes, University of Utah Hospital and Clinics, located in Salt Lake City, is a core part of the University of Utah Health system and is typically in-network for its health plans. This provides Kearns residents with access to comprehensive acute care and specialized services through their University of Utah Health coverage.

How do I enroll in a University of Utah Health plan in Kearns?

You can enroll in a University of Utah Health plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period (typically November 1st to January 15th) through HealthCare.gov. If you experience a Qualifying Life Event outside of this period, such as losing other coverage, marriage, or having a baby, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).