Young adults often experience instability with regard to work,school, residential status, and financial independence. This could contribute to a lack of or gaps in insurance coverage (1,2). In September 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) extended dependent health coverage to young adults up to age 26. This provision was expected to lead to increases in private coverage for young adults aged 19-25 when they became eligible for coverage through their parents' employment (3, and 4). This report provides estimates describing the preceding insurance status and sources of coverage among privately insured young adults aged 19-25,using data from the 2008-2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Comparisons are made with adults aged 26-34, the most similar age group that was not affected by the ACA provision.
Source: cdc.gov