Recent data from KFF shows that health coverage levels in the United States remained relatively stable in 2023, even as pandemic-era policies began to phase out. Among individuals ages 0 to 64, 25.3 million were uninsured, representing a 9.5% uninsured rate. Both figures remained largely unchanged from 2022 and reflect historically low levels compared to pre-pandemic years.
Coverage gains achieved during the pandemic continued to influence these outcomes. Policies such as Medicaid continuous enrollment and enhanced Marketplace subsidies helped maintain coverage levels, even as states resumed Medicaid disenrollments in April 2023. Compared with 2019, the number of people without insurance declined by 3.6 million.
However, trends varied across populations. The number of uninsured children increased from 3.8 million in 2022 to 4.0 million in 2023. At the same time, the uninsured rate among adults ages 19 to 64 declined slightly to 11.1%.
Most individuals without insurance are from low-income working families. In many cases, at least one household member is employed, yet coverage gaps remain. Adults are more likely to be uninsured than children, reflecting differences in public coverage availability. In addition, disparities in coverage persist across racial and ethnic groups despite overall gains in recent years.
Cost remains a primary factor in the lack of coverage. In 2023, 63% of adults without insurance reported that insurance was too expensive. Limited access to employer-sponsored coverage also contributes to uninsured rates. Additionally, some individuals, particularly those in states that have not expanded Medicaid, remain ineligible for financial assistance.
Although many uninsured individuals may qualify for Medicaid or subsidized Marketplace plans, enrollment barriers remain. These include lack of awareness, administrative challenges, and affordability concerns, even with financial assistance.
Lack of coverage continues to affect access to care. Uninsured individuals are less likely to seek medical services and more likely to delay or forgo care due to cost.
Financial challenges are also more common among the uninsured. Nearly half (49%) report difficulty affording health care costs. In addition, 62% report carrying medical debt, compared to 44% of insured individuals. These financial pressures are often linked to limited income and a lack of savings.
For additional data and a deeper breakdown of coverage trends, demographics, and access to care, view the full KFF report here: https://www.kff.org/uninsured/key-facts-about-the-uninsured-population/
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