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An estimated 13% of Utah residents lack health insurance. Though there are several places in Utah County where uninsured individuals can access primary care, Community Health Connect is the only organized connection to specialty medical and dental care for low-income and uninsured community members. Community Health Connect and the Volunteer Provider Network bridge the gap for residents living below the federal poverty level, and paying out of pocket medical expenses is a burden on their family. Without this resource, many would simply go without care. They screen clients to ensure that a financial need exists, act as an advocate for the client as they maneuver the health care system, provide language interpretation when needed, and connect patients in need with volunteer providers who donate their services. In addition, many of the clients who access these services are enrolled in a health education program that aims to teach them healthy life skills that they can incorporate into their lives regardless of income or living situation. SelectHealth recognizes the work to eliminate barriers by Community Health Connect as another example of how Utah Gives Back.
