In 2014, thousands of uninsured Idahoans automatically became eligible for assistance to help them purchase coverage through the state’s health insurance exchange. This is keeping these middle-income families healthier and more financially secure.
However, thousands of Idahoans have been left out because they earn too little to qualify and can’t get covered through their jobs. Idaho has not yet taken action to make coverage available for this group of hardworking Idahoans who fall into the ‘coverage gap.’
A smart health care policy would fill this gap. The good news is that states have flexibility to come up with their own way of closing this gap, whether through new private options or existing programs, like Medicaid. Idaho has the opportunity to design its own plan—a plan that will work for Idaho.
Good Health Policy is Good for Idaho’s Families and Good for our Economy
Health insurance improves the lives of Idahoans through reducing illness, alleviating pain and suffering, diminishing missed time at work and decreasing job loss. Families with health insurance are also more likely to receive preventive medical care, avoiding more painful conditions and larger expenses down the road.
Closing the Gap Will Boost Idaho’s Economy
Closing the gap would bring economic benefits to every region of the state, as the new dollars ripple through the local economies. When a health worker has her oil changed, goes out to lunch, or buys shoes for her kids, she will help fuel the local economy. Economists estimate that over the next 10 years Idaho would see nearly $700 million in new economic activity and nearly 15,000 new private sector jobs. To put that in perspective, Idaho had around 42,000 unemployed in January, 2014.
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