Ensuring Access to Health Care

All Americans deserve comprehensive health coverage.

According to the Census Bureau, 47 million Americans under 65 years of age—or 15.8 percent—were uninsured during 2006, up from 44.8 million uninsured American adults in 2005. In 2006, the number of children under age 18 without health insurance increased to 8.7 million—or 11.7 percent of children nationwide. The federal government provides health coverage to some Americans through the Medicare and Medicaid programs and to some low-income children through the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Unfortunately, many Americans still lack any health coverage.

APHA continues to advocate for legislation to expand access to affordable, quality health care.

NEW: APHA's Executive Director, Dr. Georges Benjamin, shares his views on shortcomings in the nation's health care system and how it can be improved. Access the interview webcast, podcast and transcript provided by the Kaiser Family Foundation.