A descriptive analysis of health care coverage and concerns in West Central Wisconsin

This study examines the level of health care coverage and health care concerns among a sample of 222 West Central Wisconsin residents. More than 68% of respondents felt that Wisconsin health care has at least major problems, and only 2.7% felt that there were no problems. Approximately 60% were extremely or very worried about not being able to afford health care services, whereas more than 70% were extremely or very worried that insurance companies care more about profits than patient care. These concerns translate into a desire for reform, with more than 90% of respondents saying it is extremely or very important for Wisconsin to make health care more affordable and accessible for all residents. Despite some differences between the insured and uninsured, the call for action to expand access and control costs was significant among both groups. These results can help guide the current policy debate on health care reform.