By Franklin Delgado
Findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that about 8% of the U.S. population was uninsured in 2025. This national survey data reflects a significantly lower rate compared to previous years.
Changes to the Medicaid program, pushed by the Trump administration, could result in an increase of 10 million people without health insurance in the next decade. Additionally, the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies is reducing participation in health plans.
About 5 million fewer people are expected to enroll in such plans in 2026 compared with 2025, according to the nonprofit health research organization KFFrefers Associated Press (AP).
Impact on specific groups
Although the proportion of insured remained constant, the number of uninsured grew by approximately 800,000, of which 300,000 were children.
The insured rate among Hispanic Americans also shows a possible increase, influenced by factors related to immigration.
Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the uninsured rate has decreased significantly, reaching its lowest point in 2023. However, recent legislative changes and the current demographic situation pose challenges for long-term health coverage in the country.
Alternative options to Medicaid or the ACA
People who do not qualify for Medicaid or Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies have several options for obtaining coverage or health care:
1. Thought on private insurance without subsidies in the Health Insurance Market
- You can buy an understanding directly at HealthCare.gov or in your state’s marketplace, without receiving financial aid.
- Marketplace plans meet ACA requirements and cannot deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.
2. Free or low-cost health clinics
- Community Health Clinics (FQHCs): They offer primary, dental and mental health care with rates based on income.
- Free clinics: Provide medical services at no cost to uninsured and low-income people.
3. State or local health programs
- Some states have state medical assistance programs for residents who do not qualify for Medicaid but have low income.
- Public hospitals often offer financial assistance programs or discounts for uninsured patients.
4. Employer coverage
- If they have a job, they may qualify for employer-provided health insuranceeven if they do not qualify for government programs.
5. Short term insurance plans
- They offer temporary coverage (generally up to 364 days) at a lower cost, although do not cover all essential benefits and may exclude pre-existing conditions.
6. Negotiate directly with suppliers
- Many doctors and hospitals offer discounts for self-pay patients or interest-free payment plans.
7. Recheck eligibility
- If your circumstances change (income, family size, address), you can update your app at HealthCare.gov to evaluate eligibility for Medicaid or subsidies.
For free help, you can call 1-800-318-2596 (press 8 for Spanish) from HealthCare.gov.
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