Among the major findings:

Expansion states realized a nearly 50 percent decline in the uninsured rate, compared to a 33 percent drop in non-expansion states since passage of the act.
The percentage of low-income adults reporting problems paying medical bills declined by 10.5 percent, to 24 percent, compared to 35 percent prior to expansion.
Seventy-eight percent of those who have obtained insurance because of the Medicaid rollout say they could not have afforded the care they have been receiving prior to the expansion.
The decline in those reporting that they could not afford care prior to expansion was greater in the expansion states (5 percent) than in the non-expansion states (3 percent). The rate declined somewhat in the non-expansion states due to the availability of low-cost, subsidized insurance through the exchange network.
Unmet health care needs among low-income adults dropped by 10.5 percent, but remains high, at 45 percent.
Two-thirds of newly covered adults say they are better off now than they were prior to enrolling.
93 percent are "very or somewhat satisfied" with their Medicaid health plans.
92 percent are "very or somewhat satisfied" with their primary care physicians.

"Evidence shows that once covered, the newly enrolled population can obtain primary care services, be screened and diagnosed for chronic conditions, and access needed prescription medications and dental care. Enrollees report satisfaction with their health coverage, the doctors included in their plan and the affordability of Medicaid," the report concludes.

Instant Insights /

Newly covered cheer Medicaid expansion

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