Can You Get By Without Medical Coverage?October 2007
A recent article by Liz Pulliam Weston at
MSN Money addresses the specific set of challenges and problems faced by the millions of Americans without medical coverage. In a world where healthcare costs seem to get higher everyday, can anyone get by without
individual health insurance?
The statistics aren't very comforting; "The more than 46 million Americans without coverage will get sick more, earn less and die earlier than those with insurance."
The ranks of the uninsured have grown by nearly 18% just since 2000, according to a study updated in 2006 by the Kaiser Commission. More than 46 million people under 65 lack medical coverage, and millions more are considered underinsured, with gaps in their coverage that leave them exposed to inflated medical bills.
But at the same time, people without employer, state subsidized or individual health insurance receive less preventive care than insured people, and they are less likely to have major diseases detected early. Finally, during their lifetime, those without
medical coverage will earn less money (10% to 30% less than the insured), and will likely die younger.
Facts on:
Individual Health Insurance
Did you know...
More than 46 million Americans without coverage will get sick more, earn less and die earlier than those with insurance?
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The article lists several factors that can help the uninsured protect themselves, understand what kinds of services they need, and find individual health insurance services if they're searching for coverage. But what seems to matter the most in lengthening lifespan, protecting children, and improving quality of life are regular checkups for routine and diagnostic care.
By specifically focusing on coverage and services that provide preventative checkups, a large percentage of Americans at all ages would find themselves living healthier, happier lives, free of medical debt.
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