Humana has been a partner with the Utah Health Exchange since the beginning, and we continue to support it as a bold, state-based approach to health care reform. However, we are now at a point where we need to make a choice in priorities, and have made the decision to place our full focus on our existing small business products. This includes the launch of HumanaVitality - an innovative approach to wellness that encourages healthy behaviors that reduce long-term health care costs.
As such, Humana will opt out of the Utah Health Exchange, effective Jan. 1, 2012. We will work closely with the Utah Health Exchange on a transition plan for Humana's 480 members currently participating in the Exchange to remaining carriers.
Humana will also continue to be an active health plan in Utah, with more than 90,000 people enrolled in employer-sponsored plans, individual plans, and Medicare plans offered by Humana in the state. We are excited about our continued role in offering innovative health care solutions for small businesses including programs designed to help these employers and their employees save money on their coverage while also being rewarded for the steps they take to live healthier lives.
As our available resources allow in the coming years, we intend to reevaluate our participation in the Utah Health Exchange and possibly partner with the Exchange again.
