Health inequality has long been commonplace in the United States. Those in the lower classes have higher morbidity, higher mortality, higher infant mortality, and higher disability. Millions of low-income families and individuals were left without the care they needed simply because they couldn't afford it. Denial of benefits due to pre-existing conditions, exorbitant deductibles, and unreasonable prescription prices are largely why the low-income class suffers. Additionally, failure to receive preventative healthcare, lack of access to exercise equipment, and lack of availability of fresh foods create health problems that become too costly to resolve. Low-income families need to have better and more affordable access to healthcare, especially preventative healthcare, and be more educated about healthcare benefits to narrow the inequality gap. The new Affordable Care Act under the Obama administration expands health care coverage to many low-income families and individuals by lowering eligibility requirements for Medicaid, although it is not mandatory for individual states to make this expansion for Medicaid coverage. (CITE) Also requires preventive healthcare to be included in insurance companies' coverage. So, with all the benefits that Medicaid expansion could offer, why would some states choose not to offer it? Under the Affordable Care Act, one of the most important provisions is to expand health care to low-income families through Medicaid. This could impact more than eight million people who currently lack access to healthcare. However, 25 states have opted not to expand Medicaid benefits, leaving 13.5 million people less likely to receive primary and preventive health care… middle of paper… Medicaid coverage. The allergy shots will not only help my severe allergies year round, but will help control my asthma. While there are some valid concerns with expanding Medicaid coverage, I think the benefits far outweigh the risks. Pregnant women will be able to receive the prenatal care they need to give birth to a healthy baby, reducing infant mortality rates. Millions of Americans can receive preventative care that can catch things like cancer in its early stages. Hypertension and diabetes may be better regulated in low-income individuals, leading to fewer deaths from these diseases. Additionally, millions of Americans will be able to afford the prescription drugs they need. Every state that opts out of Medicaid expansion has a Republican governor opposed to the program. Perhaps these states should care more about their residents than politics.