The Kaiser Family Foundation has released the findings of a new survey revealing that most Americans are confused about what the federal health care legislation means for them. The poll surveyed 1,200 American adults, with 56 per cent of respondents admitting they did not have enough information to understand how they will be affected. As reflected by the difficulty in passing the legislation, Americans are hugely divided as to the benefits of the legislation. This latest survey found 46 per cent were in favour of making health insurance mandatory, while 40 per cent disagreed and 14 per cent are undecided.

One in three respondents voiced their belief that they will not be affected by the changes, while a further 32 per cent expect to be worse off as a result of the compulsory private medical insurance . The high cost of hospital bills in the US has raised fears that many cannot afford medical treatment, while the health of many Americans has also raised concerns at the demands being placed on the medical system.

Experts have warned Americans to be wary of insurance scams and cheap deals offering critical illness insurance or medical cash plans .