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Asset building: One way the ACA may improve health and employment outcomes for people with disabilities
Hall, Jean P. Kurth, Noelle K. Averett, Ellen P.
Hall, Jean P.
Kurth, Noelle K.
Averett, Ellen P.
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Abstract
Working-age individuals with disabilities are often forced to live in poverty to maintain Medicaid coverage. This study
explored the relationship between having assets in excess of usual Medicaid limits and health and quality of life in a sample
of Medicaid Buy-In participants. Using self-reported survey data, we compared groups with US$2,000 or less in cash assets
(the usual Medicaid limit) and those with more than US$2,000. Participants with higher assets had significantly better health
status and quality of life. Males, younger respondents, and respondents with intellectual disabilities were most likely to have
higher assets. Although many Buy-Ins allow assets greater than US$2,000, assets are still capped for most individuals. The
Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion does not limit assets in determining eligibility. Especially for younger individuals
with disabilities, expansion coverage might allow greater asset accumulation and better health and quality of life, while
avoiding lifelong dependence on disability programs.
Description
Date
2014-08
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Publisher
Sage and Hammill Institute on Disabilities
Research Projects
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Keywords
Health Care, Medicare, Medicaid, Employment, Disabilities, Policy
Citation
Hall, J.P, Kurth, N.K., & Averett, E.P. (2014). Asset building: One way the ACA may improve health and employment outcomes for people with disabilities. Journal of Disability Policy Studies. DOI: 10.1177/1044207314544370