Rising Uninsured Rates in El Paso: A Look at the Impact on Healthcare and Access to Care

A study conducted recently in El Paso, Texas found that almost 24% of the population does not have medical insurance. This is higher than the state average of approximately 18%. According to US census data, the rate of uninsured individuals under the age of 65 in El Paso is 23.5%, which is a significant increase compared to other states.

Ian Escalante, an agency owner at Health Plans of Texas, attributes this high percentage of uninsured individuals to the fact that many fall below the necessary income requirement to qualify for Affordable Care Act subsidies. He explains that people who fall between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level are eligible for tax credits in the form of premium subsidies, which help reduce the cost of their monthly premium.

Those who do not meet the income requirement are left to pay medical expenses out-of-pocket. Escalante sometimes refers such individuals to University Medical Center, as they have programs in place to assist with the cost of medical bills.

Yoly Macias, a long-time patient, recalls the challenges she faced in receiving medical attention when she was uninsured. She had to pay for medical expenses out-of-pocket during that time. Despite now having insurance, Macias continues to visit University Medical Center for her healthcare needs. She speaks about her experience with treatment at University Medical Center and how it has helped her overcome her health issues on ABC 7 at 6pm.