In part three of this four-part series, I will explore the most important part of our lives: our health and well-being. Unfortunately, with job losses and a struggling economy leaving 50 million Americans without health insurance, staying healthy is becoming more difficult.  Those without health insurance are less likely to receive annual physicals and other preventive care, making it difficult to detect potentially serious conditions (like cancer) early. This is one of the many reasons that, on the whole, the uninsured are less healthy than those with insurance.

When uninsured Americans do visit a doctor or emergency room, they are generally further along in their course of illness, making it more difficult–and costly–to treat them. In fact, recent studies have found that uninsured Americans–including children–who are hospitalized are far more likely to die than those covered by either private or government insurance plans.

But even those with health insurance are struggling. Americans are paying significantly more than they did even a few years ago for health care, and a Consumer Reports survey found that 23 percent of Americans have recently put off a doctor’s visit or medical procedure due to cost.  Unemployment also negatively impacts health in ways that aren’t directly related to health insurance. When someone is out of work, increased stress can lead to a number of conditions, including depression and anxiety. Additionally, health-promoting luxuries such as gym memberships, nutrition supplements and organic food are often sacrificed when money is tight.

The bottom line is that a recession is no excuse to go without health insurance.  If you’ve lost your job, can’t afford your employer’s coverage or aren’t offered health benefits at work, an individual health insurance policy may be your best option. A relatively healthy person may find very affordable coverage by shopping and comparing health insurance quotes.  Stay tuned for part four of our series when I look at the importance of protecting your loved ones with life insurance when times are tough.