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Rising Health Bills Leave Millions 'Cost Insecure'
18 Jun
Summary
- Half of US adults could afford healthcare and access quality care last year.
- Healthcare affordability and access declined across demographics in 2025.
- Many Americans sacrifice essential needs to pay for medical bills.
Recent data reveals a concerning trend in U.S. healthcare affordability. In 2025, only about 49% of American adults were considered "cost secure," meaning they could afford quality care and medicine, a decrease from 56% in 2021. This situation has created significant anxiety, with a record high number of individuals expressing worries about their ability to pay for medical services in the coming year.
The rising cost of healthcare is a major financial burden for approximately three-quarters of U.S. adults, contributing significantly to daily stress. This affordability crisis affects various demographics, including younger adults, women, and older Americans, who have all experienced declines in their ability to access and afford care.
Many Americans are forced to make difficult sacrifices to cover their medical expenses. Around 20% reported being unable to pay for prescribed medications, and about 30% avoided seeking treatment for health issues due to costs. These situations highlight the growing strain of healthcare expenses on individuals and families nationwide.
