The United States has made significant gains in health coverage over the past five years, with approximately 90% of residents now having health insurance. However, there are still nearly 28 million uninsured individuals, putting their physical, mental, and financial health at risk. In this article, we will explore the impact of health insurance on individuals and communities, the consequences of being uninsured, and the current state of healthcare coverage in the United States.
The
Impact of Health Insurance Coverage
Health
insurance is critical to living a productive, secure, and healthy life. It
facilitates access to care and is associated with lower death rates, better
health outcomes, and improved productivity. A recent study revealed that
enrollment in coverage supports the health and well-being of individuals and
communities, improving access to care, incentivizing appropriate use of health
care resources, and reducing financial strain on individuals, families, and
communities.
Moreover,
coverage supports appropriate health care utilization by directing individuals
to the most appropriate site of care. Coverage also facilitates the use of
preventive care and management of chronic conditions.
In
particular, coverage improves access to care, especially for those with
Medicaid. Medicaid enrollees are more likely to have regular sources of care
and receive preventative care services than individuals without coverage.
Children with Medicaid coverage are more likely to have regular sources of care
and receive preventative care services than uninsured children. Additionally,
individuals with coverage are more likely to obtain access to prescription drug
therapies, an early diagnosis and treatment, and behavioral health and substance
use disorder treatment.
Coverage is also associated with improved health outcomes. After Massachusetts implemented coverage expansion through both Medicaid and private coverage, the all-cause mortality rate in the state declined significantly. More individuals in expansion states quit smoking, and individuals with coverage report a greater sense of well-being.
Finally,
coverage improves individual, family, and community well-being. Hospitals,
particularly rural hospitals, in states that expanded Medicaid experienced
improved financial performance and were less likely to close. Medicaid
expansion is associated.
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