Visualizing Health Policy: Barriers to Care Experienced by Women in the United States
This Visualizing Health Policy infographic looks at barriers to care experienced by women in the United States. In the current landscape, women incur greater health care costs than men, particularly during the reproductive years.
Financial Barriers and the Impact of the ACA
Despite a lower uninsured rate than men (11% vs 14%), women are more likely to skip a recommended medical test or treatment due to cost. However, cost barriers to contraception have decreased for insured women since the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) coverage requirements took effect. Data shows that three of 4 women reported that insurance covered the full cost of birth control during their most recent visit.
Regarding preexisting conditions, women are more likely than men to have a preexisting health condition (29% vs 24%) and express concern about the consequences of lifting ACA protections that ban preexisting condition exclusions.
Access to Clinicians and Preventive Care
Younger women are less likely to report having a regular clinician. This is a critical barrier because women without a regular clinician are less likely to receive certain preventive services, such as a mammogram and Papanicolaou test.
Comparative Data on Health Barriers
- Uninsured Rate: Women (11%) vs Men (14%)
- Preexisting Health Conditions: Women (29%) vs Men (24%)
- Contraception Coverage: 75% of women reported full insurance coverage for birth control.