2007 Survey of Registered Maryland Voters on Health Care Reform

With nearly 800,000 uninsured Marylanders, and health care costs continuing to rise, the issue of having access to affordable, quality health care in Maryland is at the forefront of many residents' minds. AARP Maryland commissioned this telephone survey to explore the views of registered voters on health care in the state and potential actions that could be taken to expand health care access to state residents.

Key findings include the following:

• Almost all Maryland voters (93%) believe everyone should have access to affordable, quality health care. At least nine out of ten residents across age groups, genders, and political party affiliation agree that all Maryland residents should have access to affordable, quality care.
• Nearly two out of three voters (63%) would be more likely to vote for a candidate who supported the development of a health care system that provided access to affordable, quality care to all residents. Women are significantly more likely than men to say this position would increase their likelihood of voting for a candidate for state office.
• More than half (58%) perceive the health care system in Maryland to be either in a state of crisis or have major problems. Nine in ten acknowledge the health care system has some problems.
• Most believe that everyone from employers to the government to individuals should have to contribute financially to a system that provides affordable, quality health care to all Maryland residents.
• A majority of voters see slot machines as a possible way to pay for a health care system that provides access to affordable, quality care for all. More than two out of three would support allowing slot machines if revenues were used to ensure all residents have access to quality, affordable health care.

A total of 801 random-digit dial telephone interviews were completed between December 19, 2007, and January 19, 2008, with Maryland residents age 18 and older who identified themselves as registered voters. For more information, contact John C. Fries at 202-434-6313. (14 pages)