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Healthcare Affordability Crisis Worsens for Americans
18 Jun
Summary
- Cost security for Americans in healthcare dropped significantly last year.
- Even higher-income households report struggles with medical expenses.
- Young adults and ACA enrollees face increasing financial strain.
A recent Gallup poll indicates that the number of Americans able to afford quality healthcare has fallen to 49% last year. This marks a decline from 61% in 2022 and the lowest point since 2021. The affordability issue spans different income brackets, with approximately one-third of households earning between $120,000 and $179,999 and one-fifth of those earning $180,000 or more reporting struggles.
Concerns about paying for medical services and prescription drugs are also on the rise, with over half of Americans polled expressing worry about future costs. This trend affects all age groups, with adults aged 18 to 29 being the most affected, as only about a third are considered cost-secure. The situation is exacerbated by rising ACA premiums due to the expiration of tax subsidies in early 2026, leading to a projected decrease of nearly 5 million ACA plan enrollments this year.
