Final answer:
Universal health care is essential in America because it ensures access to health services for all, including low-income individuals and the elderly, and supports preventive care to improve health outcomes and reduce long-term costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Universal health care is a major issue in America because it is directly tied to the well-being of the populace and the efficiency of the nation's health system. One crucial reason universal health care, including programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, is important is that it aims to ensure that all Americans have access to necessary health services without suffering financial hardship. This is especially significant for those with low incomes and the elderly, whose average health care costs can be prohibitively high.
Another important aspect is that in the absence of universal health care, many individuals may avoid preventive care due to cost, which can lead to more serious health issues down the line that are more expensive to treat. Programs like Medicare and Medicaid mitigate these risks by providing health care coverages, thus, both improving individual health outcomes and potentially reducing overall health care costs by treating issues before they escalate.