Health Care Infrastructure and Safety-Net Providers

Some people in the U.S. lack meaningful access to basic health services. These populations tend to be disproportionately low income, uninsured, of limited English proficiency, and, in rural areas, older. In addition to the lack of health insurance, several factors account for the lack of access. There is a scarcity of providers overall and, in particular, a dearth of providers who are proficient in some populations’ spoken language or who are culturally competent. Physical barriers can make reaching providers difficult. Services are not always available at times when consumers can access them. For those who are unable to access health insurance, having access to competent volunteer health care providers may be a viable alternative to going without needed care.