The Truth Is…Health Insurance Makes a Difference in Health

As South Carolina’s state Medicaid Director Tony Keck continues to tell state policy makers that expanding the Medicaid program to bring healthcare insurance to the uninsured is not right for SC, we learn from the sound research of the Commonwealth Fund that this is absolutely untrue.

A recent study reported that people who gained insurance coverage through Oregon’s Medicaid program experienced better access to care, increased detection of depression and diabetes, and reduced out-of-pocket costs. Yet blood pressure control, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels did not significantly improve. While some have said these findings suggest insurance coverage may not lead to better health, a new post on The Commonwealth Fund Blog argues that previous research leaves little doubt that insurance has a beneficial effect on health status over time. 

Read more about how SC Appleseed will continue to  work hard to ensure the smooth implementation of the Affordable Care Act, and will not forget that Medicaid expansion is the right thing for South Carolina.