Texas Looks For Answers About Uninsured

By Staff Writer

September 17, 2001 at 08:00 PM

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NU Online News Service, Sept. 17, 12:38 p.m. – The Texas Department of Insurance is seeking volunteers in Dallas, Fort Worth and Gilmer to identify the state's population that lacks health insurance, determine why they are uninsured and develop ways to get them the coverage they need.

The department on Friday will hold focus group sessions in Dallas, and on Sept. 24 in Fort Worth and Gilmer, seeking answers to questions about health insurance. The agency previously held seminars in Austin and Houston and plans 11 more across the state during October.

The sessions are part of a yearlong project financed by a $1,350,735 federal grant awarded to Texas last February.

Three focus group meetings lasting from 60 to 90 minutes each will be held at each location. The morning group will consist of people who are uninsured and unemployed. A noon session will consist of employers who offer no health insurance. The evening session is aimed at people with jobs but no health insurance.

Focus group participants will receive a small financial payment. Food and refreshments will be available.

The Public Policy Research Institute of Texas A&M University at College Station conducts the sessions under a contract with the department. Anyone interested in participating or wanting more information can contact the institute toll free at 1-888-890-0089.

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