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Americans' Opinion on Health Reform and Individual Market: National Survey Results
Regence commissioned a national survey about health care reform and the individual insurance market in order to bring the voice of the health care consumer into the discussion about solutions to the challenges facing the US health care system.
The survey of 1,002 adults, conducted by telephone November 13 - 17, 2008, explored Americans' experiences with the individual market and their opinions about reform measures. The survey found:
- By a two-to-one margin, Americans believe that - given the economic challenges the nation faces - it is more important than ever to take on health care reform as opposed to delaying tackling the issue.
- One in three Americans has tried to purchase health insurance in the individual market, and a quarter have been covered by individually purchased insurance at some point. Obtaining individual health insurance proved difficult for many. Those with low incomes or less-than-perfect health found obtaining individual insurance especially challenging.
- The majority of Americans - including Democrats, Independents and Republicans - support Regence's ideas for reforming the individual health insurance market. Americans are especially enthusiastic about eliminating medical underwriting, setting a minimum basic standard for benefits and creating a public-private partnership to ensure coverage for those with extraordinary medical needs.
About the Poll
This survey was designed and analyzed by Regence and researchers at the Glover Park Group. Interviews were conducted between November 13 and 17, 2008, among a nationally representative random sample of 1,002 adults. For results based on the total sample, one can say with 95% confidence that the error attributable to sampling is plus or minus 3.2 percentage points. In addition to sampling error, one should bear in mind that question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error into the findings of opinion polls.
About the Sponsor
Regence is a leading health insurer in the Northwest / Mountain State Region, offering health, life and dental insurance. Regence serves nearly three million members as Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, Regence BlueShield (selected counties in Washington), Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah and Regence BlueShield of Idaho. Each plan is a not-for-profit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Regence is committed to improving the health of our members and our communities, and to transforming our health care system.
