SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Spencer Cox, health care community leaders and stakeholders have taken the next step to make health care more accessible and affordable for Utahns.

The next step is part of the One Utah Health Collaborative, a community-owned nonprofit the governor launched last fall.

Solving this problem is not optional, according to Cox, who said addressing the cost of health care has become an economic must.

He said high healthcare costs impact more than what meets the eye. It impacts Utah’s economic growth by limiting employer profits, lowering employee wages, and crowding out other state spending priorities.

“In Utah we solve problems. It’s our thing. We will solve this problem before it’s solved for us by heavy-handed federal policy,” Cox said.

Through lenses of equality, equity, and opportunity, the One Utah Health Collaborative will work to reduce the growth of total health care spending in the state.

Broken down, their primary goals include affordability and outcomes measured under race, ethnicity, geography and overall inclusivity to create opportunity for all in the state.

Moreover, Cox said one in five Americans have mental and physical health conditions.

He said rates are higher among the Medicaid population.

“Solving this problem is not optional.” – @SpencerJCox

Gov, health care leaders and stakeholders are taking the next step in making healthcare to be what they hope is more accessible and affordable care for Utahns.

It’s part of the One Utah Health Collaborative. @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/Yiy0kbKCUR

— Karah Brackin (@KB_ON_TV) September 6, 2022

By June 30, 2024, Utah Medicaid will enroll 5,000 more Medicaid members to address more Utahns who need this kind of health care access.

There is also a commitment to prevent problems before they happen.

“Address root causes of chronic disease, decrease costs to create downstream savings and help people stay healthy to live productive and longer lives,” Cox said.

The idea is that access to coverage creates different health options, which will lead to overall greater health.