Objective. To explore the impact of the restructuring of health care markets on the health insurance status of adolescents and young adults, taking into consideration changes in both public and private sources of insurance. To evaluate the potential public health implications of these trends and the consequences for the future health status of these groups.
Methods. The author analyzed data from eleven years of the Current Population Survey's March Supplement in order to identify trends in Medicaid, CHIP and private insurance coverage.
Results. Those at highest risk of being uninsured are young adults between the ages of 22 and 24, followed by older adolescents between the ages of 19 and 21. Rates of coverage for these groups, including both public and private sources, have fallen by 4.8% and 9.1%, respectively, over the last decade. While expansion of Medicaid and CHIP have increased rates of insurance among minors under the age of 18, those over 18 have benefited little from such programs. Moreover, these groups have been particularly vulnerable to loss of private employer provided health insurance. Surprisingly, the loss of private insurance among young adults and adolescents is primarily due to a loss of benefits among fulltime workers.
Conclusions. The dramatic decline in rates of coverage among these groups has serious public health implications since these groups are at higher risk for a range of morbidities such as STDs, unplanned pregnancies, HIV and injuries.
Learning Objectives: To explore the impact of the restructuring of health care markets on the health insurance status of adolescents and young adults, taking into consideration changes in both public and private sources of insurance. To evaluate the potential public health implications of these trends and the consequences for the future health status of these groups.
Keywords: Insurance-Related Barriers, Access
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.