Anticipated Increases in Medically Attended Injuries by Children and Young Adults With the Affordable Care Act

Abstract

Objectives. To guide implementation of the Affordable Care Act 2010 by estimating anticipated increases in medically attended injuries and site of care by the young who are currently uninsured. Methods. The 2008 National Health Interview Survey was used to estimate injury episodes and care site for uninsured and insured youth ≤26 years old. Increases in medically attended injuries were estimated by assuming that rates and care site for the currently uninsured would match those of the currently insured once the uninsured receive coverage. Results. In 2008, approximately 11 938 800 episodes of medically attended injuries occurred for youth ≤26 years. An anticipated 6.1% increase in medically attended injuries (737 081; 95% confidence interval = 564 000-879 000), the majority of which would be seen in the outpatient setting, could occur once all uninsured youth become insured. Conclusions. Injury prevention strategies and additional injury care training for primary care physicians may help ensure appropriate triage and optimal outcomes while containing costs.