Reference no: EM133879010

Question

You are developing and integrative paper focusing on the significant gap in health disparities, insurance coverage, among states that has adopted Medicaid expansion and states that has opted out, living millions of low-income adults in coverage gap [MS1] (Sommers et al., 2024). As of 2021, 12 states had not adopted expansion, leaving millions of low-income adults in a "coverage gap," meaning they earned too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford private insurance (Sommers et al., 2024). Research has shown that uninsured rates are consistently higher in non-expansion states, contributing to poorer health outcomes and financial insecurity among vulnerable populations (Olvera et al., 2023).

These disparities are particularly pronounced among racial and ethnic minorities. Studies indicate that Black and Hispanic populations in non-expansion states are disproportionately affected by lack of coverage, leading to gaps in preventive care and treatment for chronic conditions (Patel & Rushefsky, 2020). Additionally, counties with higher minority populations often receive lower federal Medicaid-CHIP transfers, further exacerbating healthcare inequities (Olvera et al., 2023). Addressing these disparities requires policy interventions to encourage Medicaid expansion nationwide and improve access to affordable care for all Americans.

Purpose Statement

The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study is to examine the effects of Medicaid expansion under the ACA on healthcare disparities across states (Lin et al., 2021). Specifically, the study will analyze variations in uninsured rates, access to care, and Medicaid funding allocations between expansion and non-expansion states. The study seeks to provide policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers with evidence-based insights to inform future policy decisions and enhance health equity in the U.S. By understanding how Medicaid expansion, or lack thereof impacts vulnerable populations, this research can contribute to more effective strategies for reducing disparities and improving overall public health outcomes (Lin et al., 2021).

Identify criteria that could be used to evaluate the Affordable Care Act for your integrative paper. In your analysis, describe the criteria in your own words.

As a health administrator, include your own experience as well as 2 citations and corresponding references that align with your comments as sourced from peer-reviewed academic journals.