Science
Describe the role of Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance (ESHI). Include a discussion on the impact of ESHI on the uninsured population in the U.S. and any relevant statistics. Discuss any barriers to ESHI, including access health services.
Application
Discuss the role of ESHI after healthcare reform. Provide details on how employers changed their approach to HC insurance offerings after ACA implementation. What compensatory/coping mechanisms/programs were introduced to offset the health care access barriers? You may also discuss any current policy news that may facilitate or increase access to ESHI.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance (ESHI) plays a significant role in providing healthcare coverage to a large number of people in the United States. The impact of ESHI on the uninsured population and the barriers to access healthcare services are important topics that need to be explored. Additionally, this answer will discuss the role of ESHI after healthcare reform and any compensatory measures introduced to offset health care access barriers.
Science:
ESHI is a health insurance plan provided by employers to their employees and sometimes their family members. Around 55% of the nonelderly population receives their health coverage through ESHI. ESHI plays a critical role in offering comprehensive coverage to individuals, ensuring that they can access health services ranging from preventive care to specialty care.
ESHI has a significant impact on uninsured individuals, as it provides them with access to healthcare that would otherwise be financially out of reach. However, ESHI is not accessible to everyone due to various barriers, such as eligibility criteria, high premiums and deductibles, and limited provider networks.
According to a study conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately 27.5 million people in the United States were uninsured in 2018. The study found that the primary reasons for being uninsured were the high cost of premiums and lack of access to affordable coverage.
Application:
After the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), employers changed their approach to health insurance offerings. The ACA required employers with more than 50 full-time employees to offer health coverage to their employees or pay a penalty. Employers responded by offering more affordable health insurance plans, increasing the percentage of premium payments covered by the employer, and expanding the coverage to part-time employees.
Compensatory measures were also introduced to offset the health care access barriers. For example, telehealth services were offered as a part of the employee health benefit package to provide remote access to healthcare providers and reduce the need for in-person visits. Additionally, employee wellness programs were implemented to promote preventive care and improve the overall health of employees.
Currently, policy news suggests that there may be an increase in access to ESHI. The Biden-Harris administration has proposed expanding eligibility for premium tax credits, which can help more low-income individuals access affordable coverage. Additionally, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 has provided additional support to help individuals and families afford health coverage, with enhanced subsidies available through 2022. Overall, the role of ESHI continues to evolve, and policies and programs are being developed to ensure access to affordable and comprehensive health care coverage.
