Current Events- Effect of Costs on Access

Americans across the country are demanding comprehensive health reform and cannot afford to wait any longer for the government to act. Businesses and families are struggling as costs continue to skyrocket. More and more Americans find themselves uninsured. Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums have more than doubled in the last 9 years, a rate six times faster than cumulative wage increases. In the current economic crisis, even people with insurance are forgoing needed medical care, including prescription medications and doctor visits, because of the inability to pay co-payments and deductibles.

Using your textbook, online library resources, and the Internet, research the effects of healthcare costs on access to care. Present your findings, citing sources of information. Cite at least one current events article on the topic.

o What is the cost to society for people not accessing the care they need when they need it?

• What are some of the factors contributing to the increase in healthcare costs?

Write your response to each question in 1 to 2 paragraphs.