Many of the political and cultural debates currently focus on health insurance. Most people have health insurance coverage, but there are still some who do not. Those who do not have a health policy are not only those who cannot afford it, but also those who do not see the policy value.

Many of the uninsured are young adults who do not feel the need to purchase a health policy. This demographic falls underneath the age of 30, especially the age group from 18-25. Since young adults are generally healthier than older adults, many do not feel the need to purchase something they feel that they will not need.

What many young people do not realize is that health insurance covers emergency room bills, which they are much more likely to acquire than their older counterparts. Young adults, especially young men, are more likely to participate in physically demanding recreational activities, such as sky diving, rock climbing, motorcycle riding and surfing. Athletes and sporting activity participants are injury prone, and when a person splits his head open, for example, he should not be considering his finances more than his bleeding. Many young women should also find value in a health policy because giving birth is an incredibly expensive medical activity.

In some ways, developing an appreciation for health insurance is a part of growing up. The financial responsibilities of adulthood can be the most painful ones to come to terms with, yet they are also the most essential. Health insurance is not just about preparing for accidents, but it is also about healthy living and avoiding unnecessary risks. Health insurance encourages people not to get sick and to avoid unnecessary risks because insurance providers raise premiums to penalize irresponsible behaviors.

Oftentimes people think that policies cost too much, but when they honestly assess their situation, a modest policy can fit their budget and meet their healthcare needs. A policy value need only reflect the needs of the individual.

A health policy becomes more valuable to a person when that person values his or her own health. People who are not willing to prepare themselves now for ill health in the future may not value their health now, either. Some individuals without health insurance live in denial about their health. This attitude is another folly of youth. By virtue of living, everyone gets sick or suffers from an accident at one time or another. Granted, some people become ill more often and more severely than others, but it can happen to anyone. It is important for all people to have a good health policy in order to be prepared for whatever life brings their way.