In news that should shock absolutely nobody, researchers have determined that people with access to Medicaid coverage fare much better than low-income individuals without health insurance. The study found that those with Medicaid coverage were more likely to receive preventive care, more likely to have a regular doctor, and more likely to report better health outcomes. The findings won’t surprise most health policy wonks, but the study is still an important tool in ongoing efforts to preserve Medicaid funding, particularly at a time when deficit reduction talks are focusing on significant cuts to Medicaid. Advocates for the poor now have concrete evidence to counter those who would say that emergency rooms and free clinics can provide adequate health care to the uninsured. It probably won’t sway the most rabid Tea Party types, but it might help persuade moderate Democrats and Republicans to recognize the vital role Medicaid plays in the lives of ordinary people.
