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Many Women Are Uninsured
(May 1, 2008) - The percentage of women without health insurance is higher than the average of the general population. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says women of childbearing age in the US are disproportionately more likely to not have health insurance, resulting in serious consequences to their personal health and endangering their ability to manage the health of their families. (Read about "Women's Health")
"Over 17 million women in the US have no health insurance, and approximately 13 percent of pregnant women are uninsured," says ACOG President Kenneth L. Noller, MD, MS. "The sad and alarming reality is that the uninsured rate of 20.4 percent for women of childbearing age (age 15-44) is greater than for all Americans under age 65 (17.8 percent).
Uninsured women are less likely to receive important preventive health care and screening tests, such as clinical breast exams and tests for cervical cancer (Read about "Breast Diseases & Conditions" "Cervical Cancer"), than are insured women. They are also more likely to receive diagnoses at more advanced disease stages and tend to receive less medical treatment once diagnosed.
In addition to pregnancy and related reproductive health needs, women tend to live longer and, therefore, use more health care services throughout their lives. Since women also are known to be the major health decision-makers and caregivers for their family, their access to the health care system is essential, according to ACOG.
Health Insurance Terms Glossary
Note: Statements and conclusions of study authors that are published here are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect this hospital's policy or position. This hospital makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability.
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