Study: Consumers purchasing individual plans fair better in post-ACA market

The health insurance market has been working better for customers purchasing plans on their own since the ACA took effect — particularly for individuals with health problems, according to a Commonwealth Fund report.

Researchers gathered data beginning July 12 to Nov. 20, 2016, and received more than 6,000 U.S. responses from individuals aged 19 and older. Among their findings, researchers said low-income individuals are finding it easier to obtain health plans on the individual market.

Here are five takeaways from the report.

1. Sixty percent of people purchasing insurance on their own had trouble finding an affordable plan in 2010, compared to 34 percent of people in 2016.

2. In 2010, 64 percent of people making less than $48,500 annually for a family of four had trouble finding an affordable plan, compared to 35 percent of people in 2016.  

3. For adults with health problems, 53 percent said it was difficult or impossible to find a plan that fit their needs in 2010, while 31 percent said the same in 2016. For people with lower incomes, the number of people reporting similar difficulties fell from 49 percent in 2010 to 26 percent in 2016.   

4. In 2012, 29 percent of respondents said they did not go to a physician when they were sick because of the cost, compared to 20 percent of respondents in 2016. 

5. Researchers concluded the "the ACA has increased health insurance coverage for U.S. adults of all races, ages and income groups." However, study authors added the "survey does expose areas of weakness in the law and in U.S. health insurance coverage generally, including [coverage] offered by employers. The rates of people who cite problems affording plans in the individual market or finding plans that meet their needs have improved but remain high." 

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