Texas and the Healthcare Crisis

Healthcare in Texas and across the country is facing a mounting crisis. The increasing rates of uninsured individuals, coupled with rising insurance premiums, have left many families struggling to afford basic medical care.

According to recent data, nearly 5 million Texas—16.4% of the state’s population—lack healthcare insurance, a figure that significantly exceeds the national average. With rising premiums and limited options, it’s more important than ever to explore solutions that can bridge these gaps and improve access to care.

Overburdening Premiums

For three consecutive years, Texas health insurance premiums have risen by more than 5% annually, creating significant financial strain on families and small businesses alike. With premiums climbing, many Texans find themselves priced out of coverage, or forced to accept less comprehensive plans than they need.

This trend has been exacerbated by additional state regulations, which, while intended to enhance care, have inadvertently raised costs and narrowed available options. Small businesses and operations particularly bear the brunt of these increases.

Countless small businesses in Texas do not offer health coverage to their employees due to the high costs that come with providing insurance. The situation has created where vulnerable members of society, including those employed by small employers, are left with limited or no coverage options.

The Coverage Gap

Roughly 750,000 Texans face the challenge of the “coverage gap,” who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to afford subsidized coverage. The current system leaves these individuals without access to affordable healthcare, causing countless to forgo necessary care and treatment.

States that have expanded Medicaid have significantly reduced the number of insured individuals, offering an important opportunity for Texas to address its healthcare crisis. Expanding Medicaid would allow more Texans to qualify for coverage and work to close the coverage gap.

With federal funding available to assist with the cost, this expansion would provide a lifeline for those most in need of care.

Innovation & The Path Forward

To address these growing concerns, a range of innovative solutions are required to find ways to deliver vital services to underserved populations. This includes allowing small businesses to offer more affordable health insurance plans.

In addition, expanding access to federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) can allow access to healthcare providers, especially in rural areas where traditional providers are limited. These FQHCs offer affordable medical, dental, behavioral health care, and more.

While these centers are a valuable resource for many Texans, they are often stretched thin and may not always be able to meet the demand for care. Ultimately, the solution to Texas’ healthcare crisis lies in a combination of expanded access, improved affordability, and increased transparency.

By taking steps to reduce the financial barriers to healthcare, lawmakers can ensure that more Texas have access to the care they need. Furthermore, by fostering innovation in healthcare delivery, we can create a system that better meets the needs of all citizens, regardless of income or employment status.