New Survey Shows Utahns Struggling With High Health Care Costs
A recent statewide survey of 1,000 Utah adults highlights serious concerns about health care affordability across the state. The survey was conducted by the Cicero Group on behalf of the One Utah Health Collaborative and reflects Utahns’ real-world health care experiences. Utah Business
Key Findings
🔹 Nearly 1 in 3 Utah residents skipped or delayed medical care because of cost.
🔹22%skipped recommended medical tests or treatment due to cost.
🔹21%either didn’t fill a prescription or took less than prescribed to save money.
🔹18%used a large portion of their savings for medical costs.
🔹10%had to cut back on basic needs like food or housing to afford care.
🔹60%couldn’t afford an unexpected $1,000 medical bill without debt.
Public Attitudes About the Health Care System
- 83% of Utahns believe the healthcare system needs reform.
- 25% think the state government should take the lead on health care improvements, compared to 11% who say the federal governmentshould.
Impact on Employers and Workers
The survey also noted rising insurance costs: over the past five years, combined worker and employer contributions to premiums have increased by 26%, and proposed premium increases in Utah may reach up to 32% next year. Seriously, Somebody Call 911, This is CRAZY!
What This Means
Soaring costs are not just about numbers—they’re affecting Utah families’ ability to get care and keep their financial footing. The experiences shared in this survey signal a strong desire among Utah residents for meaningful changes that make health care more affordable and accessible.
What Can Employers Do?
For employers, the message is clear: doing nothing is no longer an option!
The path forward requires smarter plan design, greater transparency, stronger vendor accountability, and a renewed focus on value—not just cost. That’s why many employers are moving away from status-quo benefits management and toward value-driven, solutions-focused strategies, often in collaboration with peers, vendors, and industry experts.
Organizations that challenge assumptions, demand transparency, and collaborate intentionally are far better positioned to deliver affordable, high-value benefits that actually work for their people.
This kind of strategic shift can feel like a major paradigm change—but waiting only makes it harder. Don’t wait until Q4 and expect a miracle. By then, options are limited, and decisions are rushed.
The employers who start planning now are the ones who gain leverage, flexibility, and long-term sustainability. This kind of strategic shift can feel like a major paradigm change—but waiting only makes it harder. Don’t wait until Q4 and expect a miracle. By then, options are limited, and decisions are rushed.
Learn how you can start taking steps now to control your organization’s healthcare costs long term. Visit BLACKROCK BENEFITS
