Worried About How You’ll Pay That Medical Bill? You Are Not Alone.
Twenty-seven percent of Americans said they had trouble paying for medical care for themselves or for a family member in the past year, according to a spring 2025 survey by the Pew Research Center.
There’s no question many people are struggling and many more are worried about how they’d manage a medical emergency. The concern appears to be shared across all demographics and income levels.
A recent blog post by Investopedia offers some helpful tips people can use to reduce or eliminate medical debt:
- Review and dispute. Incorrect medical bills are more common than people think. Always ask for an itemized bill and check for errors. If you find a mistake, or even something questionable, don’t be afraid to call the billing office.
- Negotiate. Is there something on the bill you didn’t expect? Can you pay it right away? Many consumers ask for a discount or request unexpected charges be removed. If you can’t pay the bill, ask if the hospital offers a financial-assistance program.
- Set up a payment plan. You don’t have to finance your medical bill with a high-interest credit card. Ask if the hospital or medical provider will work with you on a payment plan.
- Prepare for the future. Just because you’ve successfully managed one unexpected medical bill, doesn’t mean you can’t receive another. Investigate whether a health savings account (HSA), flexible spending account (FSA) or health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) could work for you.
Have you received an unexpected or costly medical bill? Share your experience (and advice) with Voices for Affordable Health.