Can Universal Healthcare Improve Health Outcomes in the United States?

Health outcome disparities exist in the United States (U.S.) among different social, racial, and geographic populations as a result of gaps in insurance coverage and social determinants of health (SDOH). These disparities highlight the inequities within the U.S. healthcare system. Universal healthcare remains a highly debated topic in presidential elections due to its potential to address these gaps and improve overall health outcomes. A single-payer system could reduce financial barriers to care, thus enhancing access and outcomes. However, critics argue that implementing universal healthcare in the U.S. may result in unintended consequences, such as longer wait times and a shortage of healthcare infrastructure, potentially worsening health outcomes. Factors beyond insurance coverage – such as socioeconomic status, health literacy, geographic location, and systematic racism – need to be considered when drafting healthcare reforms. This review article aims to assess disparities in healthcare access and outcomes in the U.S., explore the roots of these disparities, and evaluate whether universal healthcare can effectively reduce health outcome disparities.