The Role of Health Insurance in Healthcare Access

Access to health care is one of the most critical issues that societies across the world face. With developments in medical technology, life-saving treatments, and a greater understanding of health matters, millions are prohibited from gaining safe healthcare. Health insurance remains one of the most important factors indicating whether a person gets medical care in good time and proportionally. It is still of great importance to find the role that health insurance plays while expanding health care. The blog now analyzes how health insurance works positively with better access to health care and discusses its advantages and disadvantages, with the key importance of expanding the coverage for all.

1. Financial Protection against High Medical Costs

Health insurance provides a safety net against the high costs of healthcare. Without insurance, medical bills can quickly spiral out of control, especially for serious illnesses, surgeries, or emergency care. According to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 1 in 4 people in the U.S. reported not being able to afford care because of high out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles and co-pays.

Health insurance reduces the pressure on such people in terms of cost since it covers most of their healthcare expenses. As a result, the likelihood that they may forgo some essential medical treatments to avoid costs will be reduced, and they will be able to access treatment.                

2. Increased Accessibility to Preventive Care

Another way that health insurance can improve access to health care is by improving access to preventive services. Most preventive care services, such as normal check-ups, screening services, and immunizations, are usually available without any cost-sharing arrangements in most insurance packages. Health insurance, therefore, facilitates early diagnosis of health problems before they develop into severe cases.