When poor people are given medical insurance, they not only find regular doctors and see doctors more often but they also feel better, are less depressed and are better able to maintain financial stability, according to a new, large-scale study that provides the first rigorously controlled assessment of the impact of Medicaid.

Until now, Medicaid arguments were pretty much irresolvable.

Health economists and other researchers said the study was historic and would be cited for years to come, shaping health care debates.

(READ the story in NY Times)