OMAHA, Neb.—Ninety-four percent of Nebraskans would like to see affordable health plans available to everyone, regardless of their general health, according to a new survey of Nebraskans’ views on health care.
And, the survey says, 76 percent would support a requirement that all Nebraskans must sign up for health coverage should such a plan become available.
“There is a moral imperative for quality, affordable health coverage for all Nebraskans,” said Dr. John Benson, co-chairman of the Nebraska Medical Association’s Health Care Reform Task Force. “This survey underscores the concern state residents have about their own health coverage and their overwhelming support for health coverage for everyone.”
The association, which commissioned the survey, announced the results Thursday at the conclusion of the Nebraska Health Summit in Omaha. The group is advocating state legislation that would ensure all Nebraskans have health coverage.
“Nebraskans are certainly ready for change,” said Dr. Richard O’Brien, who also chairs the association’s reform task force.
“They’re worried about cost. They’re worried about access. But, they’re also worried about their own coverage,” he said.
The telephone survey of 504 adult Nebraskans representing the state’s demographic makeup was conducted in April by KRC Research, a national polling organization.
According to the results, 90 percent of Nebraskans have health insurance. Of the insured, 26 percent had problems paying for medical services in the past year, and 31 percent postponed or skipped these services to save money. Medical services included doctor’s visits, hospital procedures and having prescriptions filled.
Of the Nebraskans without health insurance, 40 percent were denied coverage and 66 percent had to postpone or skip medical services to save money, the survey says.
Forgoing medical care “means they’re at risk of their conditions becoming worse,” O’Brien said. “These are scary numbers.”
Among the other findings were:
— 78 percent of Nebraskans said the rising cost of health care is a big concern;
— 60 percent said not being able to afford their health insurance is a big concern;
— 60 percent said losing their health insurance is a big concern;
— 18 percent said they spend $5,000 or more on health care each year;
— 79 percent said they strongly support efforts to lower insurance premiums;
— 77 percent said they strongly support efforts to improve quality of medical care and reduce errors;
— 75 percent said they strongly support efforts to ensure no Nebraskan goes bankrupt due to health.
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