By Despite being one of the most developed countries in the world, the United States struggles with providing accessible and affordable healthcare to all its citizens. A recent survey by Gallup and West Health found that only 55% of American adults feel they can afford and access quality healthcare when needed. The reality of healthcare in America is that access varies greatly depending on the state, and inequality still plays a major role in who receives quality care.
Healthcare Access Varies Drastically by State
According to a Forbes Advisor study, where you live in the U.S. can significantly impact your ability to access healthcare. The study evaluated states based on 14 different factors, including the number of healthcare professionals, availability of health insurance, and affordability of healthcare services. The five states found to have the worst access to healthcare are Utah, Nevada, Texas, Arizona, and Georgia.
These rankings were based on key metrics like the availability of hospital beds, primary care physicians, and specialists, as well as the proportion of uninsured residents and the percentage of people who could not afford to see a doctor in the past year. The disparities between these states and others highlight a national healthcare crisis—one that disproportionately affects minorities and lower-income individuals.
The Inequality in Healthcare Access
In her book Legacy, Uché Blackstock, a renowned physician, sheds light on the historical inequities faced by Black and Latinx patients in the U.S. healthcare system. Even today, racial disparities play a significant role in who gets access to quality care. These populations have consistently been denied equitable healthcare, a reality that continues to manifest in many parts of the country.
According to the National Association of Community Health Centers, more than 100 million Americans—about a third of the population—do not have access to a usual source of primary care. This lack of access often means that preventive care is missed, leading to more serious health conditions down the road. In states with poor access to healthcare, this issue becomes even more pronounced.
Solutions: Expanding Access Through Technology
Healthcare professionals and policymakers are beginning to explore solutions to bridge the access gap. Zoi Galarraga, Senior PR Digital Manager at Forbes Advisor, points to digital solutions like telehealth as a potential way to improve access. Telehealth can eliminate barriers such as transportation, while also offering services in multiple languages, which can help more Americans—especially those in underserved communities—receive timely care.
Additionally, expanding access to affordable health insurance is critical. Uninsured individuals are much less likely to seek preventive care or routine screenings. Galarraga emphasizes that having the best health insurance coverage available can significantly reduce the cost of essential healthcare services and improve access overall.