Getting coverage for the uninsured is a big part of the federal health-care reform, which goes into effect Jan. 1. Those just getting insured could require a huge amount of care and referrals, which stands to overburden providers until the system stabilizes.
Patients without insurance often only go to the doctor when they’re sick, and they readily choose the easiest, nearest option — the local emergency room. A big part of health care reform is to encourage patients to get preventive care with a primary-care physician.