Kansas Stories: Chance

October 2024

At 27 years old, Chance has always been a hard worker. Employed at a local fast-food restaurant in Wichita, Chance takes pride in their job, serving customers with a smile and ensuring every order is just right. However, the past year has been particularly challenging. After turning 27, Chance automatically rolled off their parent’s insurance. So for the first time in their life, Chance found themselves without health insurance.

While working part-time, Chance’s income is not enough to qualify for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, and they do not qualify for Medicaid. This leaves Chance in a precarious position, constantly worrying about what would happen if they came down with an illness or are injured.

Chance’s responsibilities extend beyond their job. As the oldest of nine children, Chance often helps their younger siblings with various needs. Additionally, Chance cares for their disabled partner who is unable to work, ensuring they have the support and assistance required for daily living. These responsibilities add to the financial and emotional strain Chance faces.

The reality of living without health insurance hit hard when Chance developed a persistent cough last winter. Normally they would go to the doctor, but without insurance the cost of the visit was prohibitive. Instead, Chance tried to manage their symptoms with over-the-counter medication, hoping it wasn’t anything serious.

Working in the fast-food industry means that Chance can’t afford to take a sick day without a doctor’s note. But without the means to see a doctor, getting that note can be impossible. To see their general practitioner, they must be prepared to pay the full cost of the office visit up front. They can try and book an appointment at a community health clinic at a reduced cost, but these clinic appointments are often booked out weeks in advance. This creates a vicious cycle: Chance must keep working even if they feel unwell or risk losing their job without a doctor’s note.

Transportation is another significant challenge. Chance doesn’t drive, so they must rely on public transportation or rides from friends or family. This often means choosing between getting to work and seeing a doctor, as both require the time and money that Chance doesn’t have. The financial strain is a constant worry. Every time Chance thinks about going to the doctor, they must weigh the cost against other essential expenses, like rent, utilities, and groceries. The decision is always the same: they can’t afford it. This means that minor health issues are often ignored until they become serious, potentially leading to more significant health problems down the line.

Chance’s story is a stark reminder of the gaps in the health care system. For many Kansans like Chance, the lack of affordable health insurance means living in a state of constant anxiety about their health and financial stability. It’s a daily struggle to balance work, health, and finances, with no easy solutions in sight.

Despite these challenges, Chance remains hopeful. Chance’s resilience and determination are a testament to the strength of those Kansans who navigate the health care coverage gap everyday. They hope for a future where Medicaid is expanded and they are able to access health care without worrying about the possible long-term financial impact to their family.