Understanding 2016 ACA Enrollment Data
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is constantly in the headlines and that trend is likely to continue. As many Americans question the future of health insurance in America, it is important to understand how many people enrolled in ACA health insurance and how many people might be affected by any changes to it.
Recent National Enrollment Numbers
A lot of Americans get coverage through the marketplace. National enrollment in ACA health insurance totaled 11.5 million people as indicated by December 24, 2016 statistics. A record number of enrollments for the 2017 period was recorded as well. 400,000 more people had enrolled in coverage in December 2016 than had done so in December 2015.
Political Takeaways
It is important to analyze more than just pure enrollment numbers. Here are some statistics regarding the political views and districts of covered Americans:
- 6.3 million people enrolled in the ACA live in Republican-dominated districts.
- 5.2 million people enrolled in the ACA live in Democratic-dominated districts.
- The top 10 districts with the most enrollees are all in Florida.
Understanding the number of enrollments in each congressional district is important to understand how people across political lines take advantage of the benefits given by the ACA. While the future of the ACA is uncertain, it is fair to say that certain aspects of it are helpful to Americans across the political spectrum.
California Statistics
Californians receive coverage through the state’s marketplace, Covered California. Since the ACA was implemented in 2014, the uninsured rate of Californians dropped by almost half. 1.5 million Californians enrolled in ACA health insurance in 2016, just below Florida’s number. State officials expect 400,000 Californians to enroll in 2017.
What the Numbers Mean
While healthcare and politics are complex and difficult to predict, there are some points that can be taken away from this data. First, it is apparent that the ACA has transformed health insurance coverage in terms of pre-existing conditions, exchanges, and the individual mandate. These benefits are experienced by Americans across party lines.
Amidst the concerns of premium rates and the uncertain future of health insurance in America, it is important to know how the ACA has affected the country. While Congress and the current administration are seeking to repeal, replace, or tweak the ACA, it is important for Americans to have access to affordable health insurance. For more information about the future of healthcare, read our blog. Learn how to get individual and family health insurance by contacting us.