Still Left Behind: Health Insurance Coverage and Access to Care Among Latinos in California

​Data from the 2015-2016 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) show that Latinos remain less likely to have health insurance coverage than other Californians, as they are less likely to have insurance through an employer. Though 22% of uninsured Latinos are eligible for health insurance coverage through California’s Medicaid program (Medi-Cal), an individual’s citizenship or permanent residency status remains a barrier to obtaining public coverage. This lack of coverage has important implications for the well-being of these Californian Latinos, because not only are uninsured Latinos in poorer health than those who are insured, but they also have less access to health care services.

• Tara Becker, PhD
• Susan H. Babey, PhD
• Shana Charles, PhD, MPP