Due to cost concerns, a substantial number of women have postponed receiving treatment for various health conditions they were experiencing, based on the results of a new survey.
Among non-elderly women – more specifically, those between 18 and 64 years of age – more than 25 percent delayed health care services because of health care costs in the past 12 months, according to recent polling data from the Kaiser Family Foundation. Meanwhile, approximately 1 in 5 men opted to do the same thing.
Additionally, nearly 30 percent of women said that they had trouble paying medical bills in the past year versus 19 percent of men.
The survey also assessed women's understanding of what coverage employee benefits were required to provide for. More than half of women – 60 percent – said that they knew insurance plans had to cover check-ups without their having to pay for any expenses out of pocket. Just over 55 percent said that they were similarly cognizant of not having to pay for mammograms and/or pap smear testing.
Among those 26 years of age and under, parents' are the main way in which these women get health care. KFF found that 45 percent of women 18 to 25 were covered under their parents' plans.
For women who are not able to afford the price of a health policy, the ACA provides tax credits that they may be eligible for, according to the White House. Mothers should also be able to provide coverage for their children. Starting this year, all ACA-approved plans have pediatric services that include oral and vision needs.
"By ensuring coverage for well-child, dental and eye care services, American families will have increased peace of mind and children will be healthier," according to the White House.
