JAMA: Millions of Uninsured Children Have Insured Parents
The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that more than 2 million children without health insurance have parents with health insurance that covers the working parent only.
Why is this? Because, the researchers say, the parents cannot afford the large payments needed to insure the child.
“I think there’s been a myth that all uninsured children have uninsured parents, and so if we cover the parents we can cover the kids,” said Dr. Jennifer DeVoe of Oregon Health & Science University, who led a study, in an interview. “In most cases, the parents have insurance through work at a reduced rate or no cost, but adding their family is unaffordable.”
The article points out that most of these children are from single-parent families, Hispanic families, and live in the South or the West. Many of them may qualify for some form of public assistance but their parents are unaware of it.
The abstract of the JAMA article can be found here. If you follow it, you will see that 3% of all American children are uninsured with at least one insured parent. This kind of situation is frequently found in low-income households, but middle-class income is also a predictor of being in this position. Even middle-class families aren't immune to this tragic problem.
People interested in learning more about our firm's legal services, including medical malpractice in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, may ask questions or send us information about a particular case by phone or email. There is no charge for contacting us regarding your inquiry. A malpractice attorney will respond within 24 hours.
All contents copyrighted 2010 Patrick Malone & Associates except where copyright held by others. Reproduction in any form prohibited except where expressly granted.
