In all parts of the state we heard from young Arizonans the need to reimagine our concept of health and our healthcare system. We heard of concerns with access and cost, navigating the system, and quality of care. We heard loud and clear the need to bring visibility to the mental health crisis impacting young people, in particular, and to think more holistically about health and well-being.
What Young Arizonans Said
"Without quality health insurance, job seekers will move on to employers that do offer the better health insurance programs, especially as they age. As employees have families, that becomes one of the most important benefits an employer can offer."
"I would like to see a future system that isn't insurance dependent and is accessible to all."
"I have a health condition that is a preexisting condition. Being able to have coverage for my prescriptions and access to specialists is important to me. My life depends on it."
"I am fortunate to live in Phoenix where there are lots of options, but our citizens in rural communities are hurting."
"Access isn't a problem; it is cost."
"It is not the job of the government to provide health insurance for all."
"The lack of accessibility, especially among the disadvantaged who are unable to afford care and preventive treatment, is appalling."
How to Interpret the Data
(Also see the Health and Well-being Progress Meter)
When people need healthcare, it is important to them that it is accessible and affordable. For decades, healthcare costs, the price of insurance and access to primary care and insurance plans have been under discussion. With the introduction of the Affordable Care Act and the expansion of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the number of Arizonans with insurance has increased, raising access to healthcare and reducing the need to use hospital emergency rooms for primary care.
Percentage of Arizonans without Health Insurance is updated annually and is available for the following localities:
- Nation
- States
- Counties
