A new Washington Post/ABC News poll finds that Americans say they support Affordable Care Act regulations that require health insurance companies in all states to cover a particular set of services (62%) and prohibit insurers in all states from charging higher prices to people with pre-existing conditions (70%).
However, the poll did not find out what Americans would be willing to give up to obtain these regulatory benefits.
Fortunately, a recent Cato Institute/YouGov health care survey investigated how Americans make trade-offs when it comes to their health care. In short, support for once popular regulations plummets as soon as voters consider their costs.
At first, and similar to the Washington Post/ABC poll, the Cato survey found by a margin of 63% to 33% Americans support prohibiting insurance companies from charging higher premiums because of pre-existing conditions—also known as “community rating.” But support flips, and majorities come to oppose community rating…
- if it limited access to medical tests and treatments: 66% oppose, 27% support
- If it limited access to top rated medical facilities and treatment centers: 62% oppose, 31% support
- If one had to wait several months before seeing a specialists for necessary care: 65% oppose, 25% support
- if premiums increased: 55% oppose, 39% favor
- if taxes increased: 53% oppose, 40% favor
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