According to new data released today by the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, New York’s uninsured rate continues to decrease while the rest of the nation faces increases. New York’s uninsured rate in 2018 was 5.4% compared to the national average at 8.9%
Certain parts of the state are seeing record low numbers. The uninsured rate in Long Island dropped to 3.9% while Upstate New York’s rate decreased to 3.5%
And the real overall uninsured rate is even less because there are thousands of people who are eligible for low or no-cost coverage but simply have not enrolled.
The increase in coverage here in New York is due to the ongoing commitment by health plans and the State to ensure everyone has access to affordable, high-quality health insurance.
The numbers released today show that the New York continues to be a leader. With almost 95% of New Yorkers already covered by health insurance, universal coverage is achievable. The State should continue to focus on its successful efforts to provide health insurance to the remaining uninsured and explore initiatives to improve the affordability of coverage.