Evaluation of Insurance Coverage and Cancer Stage at Diagnosis Among Low-Income Adults With Renal Cell Carcinoma After Passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Abstract

Key Points Question Was the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) associated with changes in insurance coverage and stage of diagnosis for patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and were differences based on income? Findings In this cohort study of 78\u2009099 patients with RCC, the ACA was associated with increased insurance coverage through Medicaid for low-income patients and detection at an earlier stage of disease. Insurance coverage increased to a greater degree in states that expanded their Medicaid eligibility. Meaning These findings suggest that the ACA was associated with significant increases in insurance coverage for lower-income patients and early diagnosis of RCC.