Many Uninsured in New Jersey Would Buy Coverage if Cheaper

A majority of uninsured New Jerseyans who make 150% to 350% of the federal poverty level -- most of whom are ineligible for state-sponsored health insurance coverage -- would be willing to purchase health insurance coverage if it cost less, the Asbury Park Press reports. In a survey conducted by the Rutgers University Center for State Health Policy, 50% of 412 uninsured adults ages 19 to 64 who make between 150% and 350% of FPL said that they would spend "at most" $50 a month for individual coverage and $130 per month on family coverage. According to the Park Press, the "typical monthly cost" of an HMO is $240 for individual coverage and $728 for family coverage. The study also probed interest in the state's public NJ FamilyCare program, which currently covers adults with children in families with income up to 200% FPL. According to the study, 60% of those making between 200% and 350% FPL said that they "probably or definitely" would pay premiums to participate if FamilyCare were expanded. However, 10% said they would not accept government-sponsored coverage even if it were free. Eighty-eight percent of respondents had no employment-based coverage available, and premiums were higher than the state average for the 12% of respondents whose employers did offer coverage. While 67% said they felt they could get "any needed medical care" in the emergency room, 80% admitted they "worr[y] about their lack of coverage" (Forman, Asbury Park Press, 9/23).