Medical costs in the United States are extremely high so people without health insurance may not be able to afford medical treatment or prescription drugs. They are also less likely to get routine checkups and screenings, so if they do become ill, they will not seek treatment until the condition is more advanced and therefore more difficult and costly to treat. Many small businesses are unable to offer health insurance to employees due to rising health insurance premiums.

This indicator shows the percentage of adults aged 18-64 years that have any type of health insurance coverage. 

Utah Health Policy Project

Jurisdictions wishing to improve health insurance coverage should first Conduct Proactive Education and Outreach, especially in communities with lower rates of coverage, and Maximize Enrollment Opportunities to ensure that as many people as possible are enrolled. In the longer term, jurisdictions should Expand Coverage options for people who are not eligible for or face barriers to current coverage options, and Provide Quality Care for Uninsured or Underinsured People, with an emphasis on improving care and reducing costs by providing primary and preventative care.

Jurisdictions can also help people afford insurance premiums, or gain coverage through their work, with policies intended to support economic opportunities for workers. This includes efforts to Raise Wages and Benefits, Build Workforce Development and Pathways, Build Wealth, and Develop Community Economic Capacity.