Health Care Access

The United States health care system has attracted continued criticism for its disparities and inequalities. Access to care is tied largely to income and wealth. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the life expectancy of the wealthiest Americans exceeded that of the poorest by as many as fifteen years. Studies published post-2020 suggest the pandemic widened this gap. Other factors that affect health care access involve where one lives and whether they have reliable transportation. Significant divides in the respective health care outcomes of urban and rural populations indicate that people who live outside cities face multiple obstacles to obtaining care. Transportation barriers also affect lower-income individuals, the underinsured, and senior citizens.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 contains provisions...