What is the usual effect of health insurance on access to healthcare services?

Health insurance is designed primarily to enhance access to healthcare services by providing financial coverage for a variety of medical needs. When individuals have health insurance, they are more likely to seek the healthcare services they need because the costs associated with these services are partially covered. This financial support lowers the barriers to accessing medical care, enabling people to obtain preventive services, prescriptions, and necessary treatments that they might otherwise delay or forgo due to cost concerns.

Having health insurance also generally means that insured individuals have access to a network of healthcare providers and facilities, which can further facilitate timely medical attention. Moreover, insurance plans often emphasize preventive care, which can lead to early diagnosis and better health outcomes. Overall, the presence of health insurance plays a significant role in increasing the likelihood and extent of an individual's access to necessary healthcare services.