This avoidance of the doctor's office results in greater reliance on urgent care and emergency rooms, particularly among lower-income individuals. (Photo: Shutterstock)
One of the essential coverage elements included in the Affordable Care Act was a requirement that insurers cover an annual physical with no cost-sharing for the consumer. Despite this "carrot" to encourage Americans to engage in preventive health care, nearly 1 in 5 Americans haven't been to a doctor in more than 5 years, according to a recent survey from Onlinedoctor.com.
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Emily Payne
Emily Payne is director, content analytics for ALM's Business & Finance Markets and former managing editor for BenefitsPRO. A Wisconsin native, she has spent the past decade writing and editing for various athletic and fitness publications. She holds an English degree and Business certificate from the University of Wisconsin.
