What is one effect of underinsurance in healthcare?

Underinsurance in healthcare often leads to higher rates of uncompensated care. When individuals have inadequate insurance coverage, they may struggle to afford necessary medical services or may delay seeking care altogether due to cost concerns. This can result in situations where patients seek treatment or emergency care without the financial means to pay for it, leading to hospitals and healthcare providers providing care without reimbursement. This dynamic can significantly increase the burden of uncompensated care on healthcare systems, as providers must absorb the costs of the services rendered to those who cannot pay. Thus, underinsurance plays a direct role in exacerbating the issue of uncompensated care within the healthcare landscape.