The low-income population within the gap experiences a positive impact. Firstly, the coverage gap allows them to be eligible for the Medicaid program. This increases the population’s ability to afford and access healthcare services. Secondly, the coverage gap help in lowering disparities in chronic diseases such as diabetes among the population.
Since they have access to healthcare, there are less likely to experience cases of chronic illness. Thirdly, the coverage gap enhances the health of families who earn a low income. As a result, they allow the families to major in attaining other important needs.
The Medicaid coverage gap has an adverse impact on low-income healthcare consumers. Firstly, people who are not within the limit cannot access healthcare services. This is an indication that they will be forced to personally pay for their medical bills.
Secondly, families whose income falls out of the gap must set aside more funds for medical treatment in case one of them becomes sick. As a result, people are likely to visit a hospital when there is a serious medical problem. Thirdly, low-income healthcare consumers are likely to have a shorter life expectancy. Fourthly, they are more prone to chronic diseases.