Texas 2036 recently looked into who the uninsured people in Texas are. Many said they can’t afford health insurance, but some of these views might not match reality. Charles Miller, JD, who leads health and economic mobility policy at Texas 2036, shared insights from this investigation.
The main question was: Why are so many Texans uninsured? The American Community Survey showed that a lot of people cited cost as the primary reason. However, deeper analysis revealed something surprising. Many of those who believed insurance was unaffordable were actually eligible for low-cost or even free plans.
To get more accurate information, Texas 2036 decided to ask the uninsured directly about their experiences and perceptions. A common theme emerged: many thought they could only get insurance through their employers. If they didn’t have a job or if their employer offered no insurance, they often weren’t aware of other options.
Another big hurdle was a disconnect between what people thought insurance would cost and what it actually costs. For example, many believed they needed to pay between $300 and $500 monthly. In reality, some could access plans for $25 or even less. This gap in understanding often stemmed from personal experiences or societal beliefs. A notable quote from respondents was, “Insurance isn’t for someone like me,” likening insurance to a luxury item they’d never own.
Experts suggest that improving awareness of available programs could be key. According to a recent report from the KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation), nearly 27 million Americans were uninsured in 2021, but about half of those could qualify for financial assistance through existing programs.
The findings from Texas 2036 highlight the importance of education and outreach in improving health care access. Real change requires not just better policies, but also addressing misconceptions that keep people from seeking the help they need.
To gain a broader understanding, communities can benefit from open conversations about health insurance and its real costs. By sharing personal stories and correcting myths, we can ensure that more people get the coverage they deserve.
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