How Many People in the USA Are Uninsured or Underinsured?

The issue of healthcare coverage in the USA is a pressing concern, with a significant portion of the population not fully covered. This article explores the extent of the problem and its impact on individuals and society.

Current Figures and Trends

According to recent estimates, about 28-30 million people in the USA are uninsured. This number was higher during the pandemic as more individuals were eligible for Medicaid. However, with Republican policies tightening restrictions on Medicaid, around 30 million currently fall into this category. Additionally, approximately 65 million individuals, or roughly 20% of the total US population, are considered underinsured or uninsured. This means they either lack healthcare coverage or have coverage that is insufficient to provide comprehensive care when needed.

Challenges of Being Uninsured or Underinsured

Even those who pay for health insurance often find themselves in situations where medical care is denied or rationed. Health insurance companies prioritize profit over patient benefits, leading to a significant problem in the healthcare system. For instance, up to 75 million people are uninsured or underinsured every year, with at least 30 million being uninsured for an entire year.

The situation is dire for many, as 80% of people in the USA effectively lack comprehensive healthcare coverage. Even when coverage is available, there are numerous limitations, making it practically impossible to obtain the best care. Those with deadly illnesses, such as cancer, face especially challenging situations as the financial burden becomes insurmountable.

Impact and Financial Hardship

The impact of being uninsured or underinsured is significant and far-reaching. For uninsured adults aged 18-64, the number is around 24 million. Underinsured adults in the same age group number about 41 million, bringing the total to 65 million. This is a staggering statistic, as these individuals are at serious clinical risk due to their lack of or inadequate healthcare coverage. The cost of medical bills and debt continues to be the leading cause of personal bankruptcy in the USA.

Key Data Points:

12.2% of adult Americans over 18 are uninsured (Gallup/Sharecare, Q4 2017) 28-30 million people are uninsured (Gallup/Sharecare, Q4 2017) 41 million people are underinsured (Commonwealth Fund, 2016) 65 million Americans are at serious clinical risk (uninsured underinsured) 20% of the total US population (323 million) are uninsured or underinsured

Conclusion

The uninsured and underinsured populations in the USA face substantial challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare. The fight for better healthcare coverage and policies is ongoing, and understanding the scale of the problem is crucial for finding solutions. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we can hopefully improve the healthcare landscape and support those most in need.

References

[1] U.S. Uninsured Rate Steady at 12.2 in Fourth Quarter of 2017

[2] ~/media/files/publications/issue-brief/2017/oct/collins_underinsured_biennial_ib.pdf