Recent studies reveal a troubling trend in the U.S. healthcare system: Black Americans face significantly higher rates of insurance claim denials and are more likely to be charged for services that should be free. This disparity is widening the already substantial gap in health outcomes between Black and white communities.
A study examining over 1.5 million patients found that individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups, along with those of lower income and education levels, were more likely to have their insurance claims denied for free preventative tests. Black patients, in particular, experienced a claim denial rate approximately 50% higher than white patients.
The Healthcare Equality Network has expressed deep concern over this issue, highlighting the financial and emotional distress caused by unjustified claim denials, especially in vulnerable communities. Despite the Affordable Care Act’s efforts to increase coverage, Black Americans continue to face challenges in obtaining and maintaining quality health insurance.
In 2022, only 56% of Black Americans had private health insurance, compared to 75% of whites. Additionally, Black individuals are more likely to have high-deductible or limited coverage plans, increasing their out-of-pocket expenses and the likelihood of claim denials.
The situation is further complicated by insurers like Cigna Healthcare, which reportedly rejected 80% of claims filed by its 20 million subscribers in 2023. Such practices disproportionately affect Black patients, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary preventive care and managing chronic conditions.
As calls for investigation and reform grow louder, it’s clear that addressing these insurance disparities is crucial for achieving true health equity in the United States.
See: “Critical Condition: Health Disparities Include Health Insurance” (December 13, 2024)
