On average, men are likely to live shorter lives than women. This unfortunate fact makes sense when research has shown that women are 33 percent more likely to visit a doctor than men and are 100 percent better at maintaining screenings and preventive care. So, what are the factors that keep men from obtaining health insurance?
According to The Good Men Project, the leading factor that has led men to undervalue or not enroll for health insurance, is societal pressure to appear “masculine.” Glenn Good, a professor at the University of Florida and expert on masculinity and the psychology of men, explains that men feel uncomfortable consulting with a physician on topics that they know less about. Combined with the fact that men feel like they don’t have enough time to visit the doctor, enrolling for health insurance is low on their priority list.
Nevertheless, the cost of not having health insurance is oftentimes too high and it’s important for men to understand how health insurance can better their lives—even if they feel like they are healthy enough.
A man’s chances for cardiovascular disease, prostate or testicular cancer increases with age. In fact, one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. Nonetheless, threats like these can be managed or possibly even prevented by utilizing the 10 Essential Benefits that health insurance coverage provides.
Despite societal pressures and busy schedules, men can increase their chances of staying healthy by staying up to date with exams and screenings regularly.
Nevada Health Link can connect Nevadans to an affordable insurance plan that’s right for them. With life’s ups and downs, it’s important to plan on health insurance coverage as a necessity—for both men and women. Stay healthy by standing insured. If you’re not currently enrolled in health insurance, let us help. Certain qualifying life events (QLE) may make you eligible for a special enrollment period. QLE’s are life-changing events such as job loss, income change, marriage/divorce and birth/adoption of a child to name a few.
Email us at customerserviceNVHL@exchange.nv.gov for any additional questions you may have about Nevada health insurance plans and special enrollment period to see if you’re eligible today.
