Did you pay more for health care last year? Some Americans skipped care altogether

Voices for Affordable Health has sounded the alarm on high health care costs for years now, and yet another report shows that 28% of American adults went without some type of medical care in 2022 because of the high prices.

The report, by the U.S. Federal Reserve, indicates that the situation is exacerbated by patient financial responsibility – or the amount patients have to pay after their insurance kicks in.

The report also reveals that 23% of adults experienced significant, unexpected medical expenses in 2022, ranging from $1,000 to $1,999.

These high costs often cause people to abandon the care they need because they simply can’t afford it. Oftentimes, dental care is the first to go, followed by annual visits, medication, follow-up care, and mental health visits. The report shows that low-income families are disproportionately affected.

“I can’t afford dental at all! Much less the surgeries I need, so I can’t work because I can’t stand,” Irma, who lives in Washington State shared in response to the Voices for Affordable Health spring 2023 survey.

Unsurprisingly, the Federal Reserve study found the impact of health care costs on individuals’ well-being is significant. Those with higher incomes, who are less likely to skip medical care, report better health than those with lower incomes. The data highlights the importance of affordable healthcare for overall well-being. And it prompts a reminder that most health insurers cover 100% of the costs for annual checkups, flu shots and annual screenings.

What’s your experience? Did you pay more for health care last year? Did you skip care because of cost? Share your story with Voices for Affordable Health.