Summary
The Rio Grande Valley in South Texas faces high rates of uninsured people, and this is expected to increase over the next decade. Recent policies may lead to even fewer people having health coverage, stressing healthcare providers who serve uninsured patients. Experts warn this could lead to healthcare system challenges across the U.S.
Key Facts
- The Rio Grande Valley in South Texas has some of the highest uninsured rates in the U.S.
- The number of uninsured people is expected to grow over the next decade.
- A recent law, called the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, impacts health coverage by reducing the number of insured Americans.
- The expiration of enhanced subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans may further reduce insurance coverage.
- The new law limits funding for programs that help healthcare providers care for uninsured patients.
- Experts say this could lead to healthcare facilities having financial trouble, potentially leading to closures.
- Starr County is an example of the struggles faced by communities with many uninsured residents in obtaining healthcare services.
