This report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), released June 9, highlights health disparities in the U.S. to strengthen the case for health reform.  The report notes that 40 percent of low-income Americans do not have health insurance, that roughly one-third of uninsured residents have a chronic disease, and that such residents are six times less likely to receive health care than those with insurance.  In contrast, only 6 percent of high-income Americans lack insurance.  The report also details numerous racial and ethnic health disparities for insurance, access to care, and specific health conditions. 

From the report:

The United States spends more than any other nation in the world on health care – in 2007 we spent $2.2 trillion. Despite consistent increases in spending, disparities among demographic groups persist. Low-income Americans and racial and ethnic minorities experience disproportionately higher rates of disease, fewer treatment options, and reduced access to care. With unemployment on the rise, the disparities already apparent among these groups will continue to increase. It is vital that health reform reduces costs to make health care affordable; protects a patient’s choice of doctors, hospitals, and insurance plans; invests in prevention and wellness; and assures quality, affordable health care for all Americans.

Full report: Health Disparities: A Case for Closing the Gap (PDF|860KB) 

U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of Health Reform. (2009). Health disparities: A case for closing the gap. Halle, M., Lewis, C.B., and Seshamani, M.