Americans may disagree about politics, but there’s one issue bringing people together: frustration over healthcare costs.

A new national survey finds 3 of 4 registered voters say healthcare will be one of the top three issues influencing their vote in this year’s elections.

And it’s not hard to understand why.

According to Fierce Healthcare’s report on the People’s Health Care Survey, conducted by the nonprofit United States of Care, three-quarters of respondents feel frustrated, overwhelmed or helpless about healthcare costs.

More than half say healthcare is unaffordable. And those costs are forcing some families to make difficult choices.

In the past year, 16% of respondents delayed care, another 16% skipped care altogether, and 12% cut back on essentials such as food, housing or utilities to pay for healthcare.

That’s a troubling picture for families already trying to make ends meet.

The survey also found that Americans want changes to the healthcare system. Nearly half favor major or sweeping reforms, while about a third prefer targeted improvements.

Respondents identified several contributors to high costs, including hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and insurers. But regardless of where they place responsibility, people share some common goals: affordable care, reliable coverage and a system that’s easier to understand.

What can you do right now?

While bigger changes will take time, there are steps consumers can take to make more informed decisions about their healthcare costs.

If you’re shopping for health insurance, compare plans carefully. Don’t look only at the monthly premium. Consider deductibles, copays, prescription drug coverage and whether your preferred doctors and hospitals are in the plan’s network.

A plan with a lower monthly premium isn’t always the least expensive choice once you factor in the care you expect to need.

The survey sends a clear message: Americans want healthcare they can afford and coverage they can count on.

Are healthcare costs putting pressure on your household budget? We want to hear your story. Share your experience with Voices for Affordable Health.

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