Washington, Oct. 16, 2001 – New U.S. Census data commissioned by the March of Dimes released today disclose both encouraging and troubling news. "While the news about improved health coverage of children is encouraging we remain concerned that 11 million—more than one in six—women of childbearing age continue to go without health insurance and that number is on the rise," said Dr. Jennifer L. Howse (pronounced HOUSE), president of the March of Dimes.
The proportion of women of childbearing age (15-44) without health insurance is 18.0 percent in 2000, up from 17.8 percent from the 1999 survey, an increase of 109,000 women. Dr. Howse added "we find this news deeply troubling given that the softening economy, exacerbated by the events of Sept. 11, is expected to result in the loss of jobs and health coverage for women who depend on employer-based coverage. Sixty seven percent of women of childbearing age receive coverage through an employer plan."
Almost 30% of the 38 million uninsured Americans are women of childbearing age. The percentage of women of childbearing age lacking health insurance also varies widely by state, ranging from 30.7 percent of women in New Mexico to 6.2 percent in Rhode Island.
Hispanic women are much more likely to be uninsured. About 37 % of Hispanic women ages 15-44 are uninsured, more than twice the overall rate.
"On the upside, we are pleased to see the improvement in the number of children with health care coverage," said Dr. Howse. The new data reveal that the percentage of uninsured children under age 19 in the United States dropped from 12.9 percent in 1999 to 12.0 percent in 2000, a decline of 652,000 children. Dr. Howse added, "Although this news is encouraging, more work must be done to ensure that the 9.2 million children still without insurance obtain coverage."
One small but important step being taken by the March of Dimes, in cooperation with Kmart, is Make a Difference Day, the largest annual national day dedicated to helping others, on October 27, 2001. On this day, March of Dimes volunteers nationwide will be at Kmart and Big Kmart stores providing information to parents on how to enroll their children in the State Children Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).
The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of children by preventing birth defects and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy. For more information call 1-888-MODIMES.
