Universal health coverage exists when health care coverage is extended to all persons within a state or nation. Typically, universal coverage is funded through a single-payer system in which all health care costs are paid through a single funding mechanism, usually administered by the government. The United States is the only leading industrialized nation that lacks universal health coverage.
Identification
Most insured Americans have medical and dental insurance through their employers.
Types
Some U.S. government programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program, provide coverage to the elderly, the poor and children. However, large numbers of people remain without coverage.
Size
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 14 percent of Americans lack health coverage. Adults ages 18 to 24 were the least likely to have health insurance.
Proposals
Some members of Congress have proposed implementing universal health coverage in the United States by expanding Medicare to cover all Americans. The Obama administration has made universal health coverage a policy priority.
Benefits
Under universal health coverage, all citizens, regardless of their ability to pay, have health care coverage. This reduces costly hospital emergency room visits by the uninsured.
History
A 1994 attempt by the Clinton administration to implement universal health coverage was defeated after heavy lobbying by the insurance industry and business groups.
