Sophie Okolo, MPH

Healthcare is a tricky business for a number of reasons. First, it’s expensive. For many people, accessing reliable healthcare is a significant concern. While some gain private healthcare benefits as part of their job packages, others aren’t so lucky. The number of uninsured Americans has been increasing steadily since 2017. In 2019, the rate of uninsured adults reached a new high of 10.5%.

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, even more Americans have lost their health insurance – an estimated 27 million. So, what can people do during these troubling times to prioritize their health? Aside from the obvious COVID-19 precautions such as wearing masks and following other state mandates, there are resources available to help people gain the healthcare access they need. These include: 

Additional support through Medicaid

People have the option to obtain healthcare through Medicaid, for which enrollment is currently open. If you require healthcare and have been impacted financially by the pandemic, it is worth applying for this program.

If you have lost coverage or experienced a life event such as getting married or moving house, you may be eligible for health coverage through Medicaid. The enrollment period is extended due to the Covid-19 pandemic and will run between February – May 2021.

The CARES Act

Any healthcare bills associated with coronavirus are supposed to be covered by the federal government, which applies to those uninsured. It is crucial to be aware of this, as many Americans avoid seeking out necessary healthcare treatments due to the fear of facing high bills. This was introduced as part of the CARES act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act).

This act aims to support people across healthcare, employment, and other necessary areas of life. It primarily aids by directly making payments to individuals to help meet their needs.

Handling Medical Malpractice

Other challenges faced by Americans nationwide are dealing with medical errors and mistreatment. When the necessity for good-quality healthcare is at an all-time high, it has never been more important to take control and receive compensation for medical malpractice. 

The hope is that medical care will always go smoothly. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If you have been the victim of medical malpractice, ensure that you know your rights and do the appropriate research to obtain compensation. Medical errors are relatively common and often go unreported due to the fear of incurring high legal fees.

Medical issues can vary from being misdiagnosed illnesses, incorrectly prescribed medications, botched surgeries, and so forth. Putting your healthcare first is essential. If an error has occurred through no fault of your own, the law is on your side. Obtaining a medical malpractice lawyer is the next important step. As the legal procedures are lengthy and complicated, having a lawyer to guide you through the process will ensure that you have everything you need.