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The Effect of Premiums and Cost Sharing on Access and Outcomes for Low-Income Children

Cost sharing in health insurance aims to steer enrollees toward more cost-effective services and encourage personal responsibility in health care purchasing decisions. But cost sharing can also shift costs from payers to enrollees and discourage use of appropriate, medically necessary services. This review synthesizes studies on the effects of premiums and other cost sharing on access to care and health outcomes for low-income children.