Language barriers could deter more than 100,000 Californians from enrolling in the state's health benefit exchange, according to a study released today by the California Pan-Ethnic Health Network, the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research and the UC Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education.
The researchers conducted an analysis using the California Simulation of Insurance Markets model. They found more than 1 million limited-English proficient adults will be eligible to receive tax credits to purchase affordable coverage in the state's health benefit exchange, which expands access to affordable health coverage as part of healthcare reform.
The same analysis showed, however, only 42 percent of eligible LEP adults are expected to enroll in the program. If language were not a barrier, participation by LEP adults could increase to 53 percent, a difference of approximately 110,000 individuals.
The researchers expressed the importance of adopting a diverse strategy for outreach and education.
The researchers conducted an analysis using the California Simulation of Insurance Markets model. They found more than 1 million limited-English proficient adults will be eligible to receive tax credits to purchase affordable coverage in the state's health benefit exchange, which expands access to affordable health coverage as part of healthcare reform.
The same analysis showed, however, only 42 percent of eligible LEP adults are expected to enroll in the program. If language were not a barrier, participation by LEP adults could increase to 53 percent, a difference of approximately 110,000 individuals.
The researchers expressed the importance of adopting a diverse strategy for outreach and education.
Related Articles on Population Health:
Mercy Health in Cincinnati Launches Subsidiary as First Step Toward an ACO
Arizona Legislation Would Keep Medications for Chronic Conditions Predictable
CareFirst Blues Give $8.5M For Medical Homes at Safety Net Clinics