A lack of health insurance coverage isn't the only barrier people face to getting care. Some people cannot access health services because of transportation.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center closed its Braddock branch earlier this year for economic reasons. A slew of complaints came in, saying the closure violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

A large number of those who rely in the hospital for care are African-American and rely on public transportation. Without the UPMC Braddock location being open, residents would be faced with long commutes to neighboring hospitals.

"We recognize that health care institutions are confronted with difficult economic decisions," said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services office of civil rights Director Georgina Verdugo. "However, those decisions must consider the impact on communities and steps must be taken consistent with their obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, to ameliorate that impact."

Having adequate access to health services is crucial to one's well-being as well as the healthcare system. Those who go without care may ultimately end up with a costly condition that could have been prevented if proper measures were taken early on.