Those most likely to remain employed were individuals with higher education status, male gender, a spouse and no additional disability. Patients with fewer safety net items understandably suffered more.
Experts characterize the rise in cases and differences based on socioeconomic status, education and ethnicity as evidence of failure of policymakers to expand access to care.
Minority status and lower income correlated with higher rates of severe loss. Researchers advocate for public health initiatives and outreach programs aimed at high-risk groups.