Think the number one cause of bankruptcy is job loss? Think again.

According a recent study by researchers at Harvard University, the biggest motivating factor in 62 percent of bankruptcies is actually medical expenses. While this number is not limited to those without health insurance, it seems obvious that a lack of coverage can result in much higher medical bills.

If an uninsured individual develops a rare disease or suffers a serious injury, then bankruptcy may be the only option open to him or her for resolving the debt acquired during treatment. Even for someone who has saved their entire life - without insurance to carry some of the weight, expensive medical procedures can quickly deplete savings.

So how many in California are uninsured?

According to a report by the University of California, Los Angeles, 1/4 of all adults and children in the state do not currently have insurance. This is representative of a 28 percent increase in uninsured citizens between 2007 and 2009. During the same period of time, California bankruptcy filings increased by more than 65 percent.

While medical costs remain the leading cause for bankruptcy, one shouldn't discount lost jobs as a motivating factor. In fact, California's high number of uninsured is due, in large part, to lost jobs.

There is hope that a healthcare bill, if passed, would go a long way towards ensuring coverage for these out-of-work Californians. Many have, in fact, remained on state-funded healthcare following job loss. Still, with 25 percent uninsured, it is clear that relief is needed - and soon.

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