Adverse outcomes and lack of health insurance among newborns in an eight-county area of California, 1982 to 1986

Article Abstract:

Using data obtained from medical records at time of discharge from a number of California hospitals, the effect of lack of health insurance in a population of newborn infants was measured. From 1982 to 1986, the number of hospital discharges of uninsured newborns increased by 45 percent. When analyzed by race, the rate of uninsured Asians increased by 54 percent and that of Latinos by 140 percent. From these studies it was established that the risk of an adverse hospital outcome (prolonged stay, transfer to another hospital or death) was directly related to the lack of health insurance. The risks for the uninsured were higher among blacks and Latinos. This increased risk factor among uninsured newborns may be explained by inadequate and decreasing community resources for medical service for the uninsured.

African Americans, Latin Americans, Infants

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Health insurance and access to primary care for children

Article Abstract:

Children who are not insured may have poor access to primary care. Researchers evaluated data from the 1993-1994 National Health Interview Survey, which included 49,367 children under 18 years old. Based on this data, an estimated 13% of all American children were uninsured during 1993-1994. Uninsured children were less likely to have a regular primary care physician, access to medical care after hours, and more likely to have gone without needed medical or dental care. Their families were more likely to be dissatisfied with their care.

Economic aspects, Medical care, Children

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Lack of health insurance and decline in overall health in late middle age

Article Abstract:

Middle-aged people who have no health insurance are more likely to experience a decline in overall health and physical function than those who do. This was the conclusion of a five-year study of 7,577 people who had continuous coverage, intermittent coverage, or no coverage between 1992 and 1996.

Middle aged persons

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