Health Insurance
Having health insurance enables people to obtain the health care services they need. Those who are uninsured are more likely to put off primary care and seeking care when health issues arise which can result in poorer health outcomes. The exorbitant costs of care can be especially financially debilitating for those without insurance.
Although insurance rates have improved with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), disparities in insurance coverage persist, and coverage for many may be threatened. Many barriers to coverage still exist, including the high cost of insurance, jobs that do not offer health insurance coverage, eligibility issues for Medicaid and Marketplace (particularly in states that did not expand Medicaid as part of the ACA), and lack of awareness for financial assistance among those who are eligible.