Health insurance isn’t the same thing as health care, but insurance makes good care possible.

People who don’t have insurance are less likely to seek and receive either preventative or remedial health treatment. Uninsured children, compared with the insured, are up to eight times less likely to have a regular source of care. Having a regular doctor – someone who follows a child’s medical history – is a predictor for good preventative care. Uninsured children are less likely to receive proper medical care for childhood illnesses such as sore throats, ear aches and asthma, according to reports by the American Academy of Physicians. When care is delivered late and through emergency rooms, besides being disruptive for the child, higher medical costs are passed on to everyone.

– Sarah Bennett-Astesano

•  Spread the word. If you have health insurance, but are interested in helping your neighbors who don’t, visit  coveringkidsandfamilies.org for state and local contacts and ways to get involved. Each year, Covering Kids & Families holds an annual back-to-school campaign. Outreach efforts include participating in health fairs and community events.