Changes in Insurance Coverage Among Cancer Patients Under the Affordable Care Act

Abstract

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has reduced the number of uninsured persons in the United States to a historic low. Debate continues about potential changes to the law that could affect coverage for millions, particularly those with preexisting conditions. Meanwhile, cancer is the leading cause of death among Americans aged 19 to 64 years. Treatment is often unaffordable for uninsured patients, and some studies suggest that expanding insurance coverage could improve cancer-related outcomes. Our objective was to quantify changes in health insurance coverage under the ACA among patients newly diagnosed with cancer.