Economy may stall push for healthcare

A drop in the number of people who lacked health insurance in 2007 reflects a push by states to cover more lower-income adults and children, but the gains might unravel during the economic slowdown, economists and health experts say. In 2007, 26 states expanded eligibility for Medicaid, but the troubled economy, coupled with the housing crisis and high gas prices, could force states to step back, the experts say.