Abstract
Inequity in health insurance coverage and healthcare utilization among U.S. construction workers
Xiuwen Sue Dong, DrPH1, Xuanwen Wang, PhD1 and Rebecca Katz, MPH2
(1)CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, MD, (2)CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, MD
APHA's 2018 Annual Meeting & Expo (Nov. 10 - Nov. 14)
Background/Aim: Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the U.S. and has a rapidly growing diverse workforce. This study examined health insurance coverage and healthcare utilization among construction workers to identify vulnerable worker groups in this industry.
Methods: Two large national household surveys were analyzed. Health insurance coverage was estimated using the Current Population Survey March Supplement and the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). The NHIS was also used to assess healthcare utilization. Stratified analyses and statistical tests were conducted using SAS 9.4.
Results: Health insurance varies among construction workers. Employer-provided insurance coverage was lower among Hispanic and immigrant workers, temporary workers, and workers employed in small construction companies. In 2015, about one-third of Hispanic workers who were wage earners had health insurance through their employment, while the percentage was 56% among their white, non-Hispanic counterparts. About 26% of construction workers in companies with fewer than 10 employees received employment-based health insurance, compared to more than 70% of workers in companies with 500 or more employees. Moreover, around 55% of uninsured construction workers had no usual source of care when sick, compared to 12% of insured workers. Uninsured workers were also more likely to use the hospital emergency room when sick than workers covered by insurance.
(The findings will be updated to 2017 data)
Conclusion: This study found sizable disparities in health insurance coverage and healthcare utilization among construction workers. To eliminate health inequities, it is essential to improve access to healthcare, beginning with health insurance.
Epidemiology Occupational health and safety Provision of health care to the public Public health or related laws, regulations, standards, or guidelines