ISSUE BRIEF
The Consequences of Being Uninsured

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA) has increased access to health coverage for millions of Americans; however, it has left many uninsured and thus at risk for adverse health and financial consequences. This, in turn, impacts all of us. The more people who remain uninsured, the more our health care system is adversely impacted, including its ability to serve insured members of the community. So we continue to need comprehensive health care solutions that will increase access to health care for those who remain uninsured. State and local governments can play a vital role in expanding access to affordable health coverage and care by filling the gaps left by the ACA.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Exclusion of People Granted “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals” from Affordable Health Care

What are the health care restrictions released by the Obama administration on August 28, 2012? When do the restrictions go into effect? BEFORE August 30, 2012, what did DACA-eligible individuals have access to in terms of health care? AFTER August 30, 2012, what do DACA-eligible individuals have access to in terms of health insurance? Do the DACA health care restrictions affect all individuals granted deferred action? What are the key policy concerns about the health care restrictions? And more.

• See also this 2-pager: Health Care for DACA Grantees (PDF)

Non-NILC Resources

NEW MEXICO CENTER ON LAW & POVERTY
Models for Safety-Net Programs

New Mexico’s counties have the opportunity to design safety-net systems that draw from the best practices of programs from across the country. This document provides a sampling of programs for the uninsured, highlighting those that strive to improve access and healthcare coordination. (Posted here with permission from the New Mexico Center on Law & Poverty.)