Health insurance is considered to be an extremely crucial instrument
that has a direct impact on the quality of health and health-related
outcomes of an individual (Kilbourne, 2005). However, in the U.S.
many individuals avoid taking health insurance, believing that they
are in good health. This decision gives rise to both positive as well as
negative consequences. The main pro of avoiding medical insurance
is the ability to save health-related costs in case of good health and
wellness. In addition to this, by avoiding medical insurance,
individuals are able to escape from complex insurance policies as
they do not have to choose a final insurance product relating to their
health. Since most health insurance schemes do not cover all kinds of
medical conditions and diseases, by avoiding such insurance plans, it
is easier to put the money to better use. By avoiding the insurance, it
is possible to avoid the Co-pay clause in which medical cost is
divided between an individual and the insurance company.
The cons relating to the avoidance of medical insurance are that
uninsured individuals are less likely to receive preventive as well as
screening services, and the inability to leverage diverse health
insurance options and plans to secure one’s health (Kilbourne, 2005).
Similarly, by avoiding medical insurance, individuals are not able to
take advantage of a broad range of add-on benefits that come with
insurance plans and schemes. They also have to give up tax benefits
that are associated with medical insurance. By not having a medical
insurance, it is not possible to avail cashless treatment for oneself
and their family members.
The decision to avoid medical insurance can give rise to both positive
as well as negative impact for individuals. So before buying or
avoiding medical insurance, it is vital to evaluate the pros and cons so
that the quality of health can be positively affected by making the
decision.
References
Kilbourne, A. M. (2005). Care without coverage: too little, too
late. Journal of the National Medical Association, 97(11), 1578.
