Health Insurance: The Unseen Struggle During COVID-19

The Problem of Insurance Churn

In the US, many people are at risk of losing their health insurance, especially those on Medicaid. This issue, known as insurance churn, has been a problem for a while. Even after the Affordable Care Act (ACA) helped more people get coverage, the risk of losing insurance remains high.

The Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation. Many people lost their jobs and, consequently, their health insurance. Having health insurance is crucial as it helps people access medical care without financial ruin.

What is Insurance Churn?

Insurance churn refers to the cycle of repeatedly losing and gaining insurance. This can occur due to changes in employment, income, or other life events. For those on Medicaid, this is a common issue. Eligibility for Medicaid can fluctuate monthly based on income.

The Consequences

This back-and-forth can be stressful and disruptive, leading to gaps in coverage. These gaps make it harder for individuals to receive consistent medical care and can complicate the work of doctors and hospitals.

The Pandemic's Role

The pandemic highlighted the severity of this issue. With widespread job losses, the number of uninsured Americans surged. This underscores that even with laws like the ACA, significant gaps in the healthcare system persist.

The Need for Solutions

It's essential to consider how to ensure everyone has access to health insurance. This isn't just about having an insurance card; it's about having peace of mind and the ability to take care of one's health.