Uninsured Population Grew in 2009

Health insurance reform may have passed but its effects won't take effect for many until 2014. In the meantime the need for reform continues to grow. Last year (2009) there were 50.7 million Americans uninsured or 16 .7% of population which is up from 46.3 million and 15.4% in 2008. Most of this change is caused by the current economic recession, either from employers dropping coverage of from people being unable to afford private insurance.

These aren't just numbers on a page, they're living, breathing individuals who now spend hours in hospital emergency rooms waiting for treatment. This lack of coverage is one of the factors in America's low ranking for longevity compared to other industrialized countries.