Public support for National Health Insurance

In 1978 a majority of the American public felt there was a need for National Health Insurance (NHI). This study develops models of public support for NHI both with and without a tax subsidy. Support for NHI is highest among the young, lower socioeconomic groups, non-Whites, and urbanites. The older, more educated, White, and rural population are less supportive. In addition, substantial differences exist across political party orientation and health insurance status. Although support for NHI declines by considering a tax subsidy, logit estimates remain relatively stable. Only age and socioeconomic status lose statistical significance when the tax issue is considered.