UNDERSTAND THE ISSUES
Facts and Data in Focus
- Why Coverage Matters
- The Uninsured and Underinsured
- Cost of Coverage
- Affordable Care Act of 2010
- Additional Resources
Facts and Data in Focus
Among wealthy industrialized nations, the United States ranks highest in cost per person and lowest in overall health status. In addition, no other wealthy industrialized nation has a problem with its citizens being uninsured.
There are over 52 million uninsured people in the United States, representing 15% of the population[1]. In California, the percentage is even higher, with 23.4% of residents uninsured in 2011[2]. Both these numbers represent increases over prior years, reflecting the increasing cost of health insurance, the worsening economy and the increase in the number of unemployed.
The level of employer sponsored health insurance decreased in California from 67% in 2000 to just 50% in 2010[3]. Employers and individuals are also selecting lower cost health plans which are characterized by more limited benefits, more restricted provider networks and higher deductibles and copayments. This has resulted in significant increases in the number of underinsured.
At a Glance
At a Glance
This section includes data and resources on the following information:
- Why Coverage Matters
- The Uninsured and Underinsured
- Cost of Coverage
- Affordable Care Act of 2010
- Additional Resources
[1] http://www.kff.org/uninsured/upload/7806-04.pdf
[2] http://www.healthpolicy.ucla.edu/pubs/files/County_Uninsured_FS_CORRECTION.pdf
[3] http://laborcenter.berkeley.edu/healthcare/declining_coverage06.pdf