In the United States, access to healthcare is critical to living a healthy and secure life. While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has helped millions of people gain access to health coverage, there are still millions of people who remain uninsured. In this article, we'll explore the importance of health insurance in the United States and the benefits of having coverage.
Why Health Insurance is Important
One of the most significant reasons why health insurance is essential is that it provides access to healthcare. When people have coverage, they are more likely to have regular sources of care and receive preventative care services. This, in turn, can lead to lower death rates, better health outcomes, and improved productivity.
Moreover, being insured incentivizes appropriate use of healthcare resources and reduces financial strain on individuals, families, and communities. This is critical, especially for low-income families, as coverage helps to diminish cost barriers to accessing care.
The Impact of Coverage
Enrollment in coverage supports the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Studies confirm that coverage improves access to care, supports positive health outcomes, incentivizes appropriate use of health care resources, and reduces financial strain on individuals, families, and communities.
Coverage Improves Access to Care
One of the most significant benefits of having health insurance is improved access to care. Studies have shown that individuals with coverage are more likely to obtain access to prescription drug therapies and obtain an early diagnosis and treatment, which may ultimately contribute to improved health outcomes.
Moreover, coverage improves access to behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment. Young adults with mental illness who have coverage have a higher rate of monthly outpatient mental health visits than those without coverage.
Coverage Is Associated with Improved Health Outcomes
Health insurance coverage is also associated with improved health outcomes. Studies have shown that coverage expansion is associated with decreases in mortality, lower cardiovascular mortality specifically, and more individuals in expansion states quit smoking.
Moreover, individuals with coverage report a greater sense of well-being, with an increase in individuals reporting being in excellent health after states expanded Medicaid.
Coverage Supports Appropriate Health Care Utilization
When people have coverage, it helps direct them to the most appropriate site of care. Young adults who could stay on their parents' health plan experienced decreases in non-emergent emergency department (ED) visits. Moreover, coverage facilitates the use of preventive care and management of chronic conditions.
Coverage Improves Individual, Family and Community Well-being
Health insurance coverage also improves individual, family, and community well-being. Hospitals, particularly rural hospitals
