Upstate NY Has Lower Uninsured Rates Compared To State, Nation

Utica, NY (WIBX) - Upstate New York has a comparatively low uninsured rate, compared to state and nation averages.

According to a new study released by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield,  11.1 percent of upstate residents are uninsured, as opposed to 14.6 percent statewide and 16.1 percent nationwide.

Among the groups with the highest uninsured rates are those who are underemployed or unemployed, those earning less than $50,000 a year, and non-hispanic blacks. Each of these groups experienced higher than 21 percent uninsured rates.

Eve Van de Wal, regional president for Excellus, says, quote, "having a better understanding of who are the uninsured in our communities can be helpful in spotting opportunities to enhance access to coverage."

The study used figures gained from U.S. Census surveys conducted from 2008 through 2010 to determine the health insurance status of adults, ages 18 to 64.

To access the complete Excellus study, click here.