1 in 3 Insured Americans Face Medical Debt, Survey Reveals
New survey shows 1 in 3 insured Americans struggle with medical debt. Find out how they're coping and what it means for the healthcare system.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — A new study has uncovered that a significant portion of Americans with health insurance are still facing financial burdens from medical expenses, highlighting a growing crisis in the U.S. healthcare system.
The Commonwealth Fund, a nonpartisan health policy research organization, released a report revealing that one-third of individuals covered by employer plans, the Affordable Care Act marketplace, or private insurance have ongoing medical debt. This debt is often accumulated through hospital visits, which account for nearly two-thirds of all such financial obligations, according to the analysis.
📄 POLICY WIRE WHITEPAPER PUBLISHED: PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY PRIORITIES
The survey also found that about 15% of working-age adults with private health coverage owe at least $2,000 in medical bills. Many of these individuals have had to deplete their savings or reduce spending on essentials like food, heating, and housing. Nearly a third reported avoiding necessary medical care due to financial constraints. Experts warn that unexpected healthcare costs can quickly overwhelm even those with insurance, particularly low-income households.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
