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New UNO Report Shows Needs, Characteristics of Uninsured Nebraskans

By Cheril Lee

Omaha, NE – The University of Nebraska-Omaha's Center for Public Affairs Research is out with a new report that characterizes Nebraskans without health insurance.

Research Coordinator David Drozd says he was surprised to learn that uninsured rates are highest among college age individuals and those in their early working years. The report, released last week, provides new information that may aid the current public debate regarding health insurance coverage.

Drozd says almost universal coverage exists for those aged 65 and older who are Medicare eligible. He stresses that the data in the report covers calendar year 2008 and doesn't mesh with the onset of the recession in Nebraska. The numbers that come out in 2009 will likely show increased uninsured rates in Nebraska as well as nationwide.