Record 91 Million Americans Unable to Afford Healthcare

A recent survey from the West Health-Gallup Healthcare Affordability Index reveals a record 35% of Americans, approximately 91 million people, cannot afford quality healthcare when needed. This marks the highest level of unaffordability since tracking began in 2021, with vulnerable populations, particularly Hispanic (52%) and Black Americans (46%), facing the most significant challenges. The survey indicates that 11% of adults are categorized as 'Cost Desperate,' unable to access necessary care or medications, a troubling trend that has worsened notably among low-income households, where 64% of those earning under $24,000 report affordability issues. Additionally, only 51% of Americans are considered 'Cost Secure,' a decline indicating deeper disparities in healthcare access based on income and race. Experts warn that without urgent policy interventions, the affordability crisis in healthcare is likely to escalate, forcing more individuals to make difficult choices between medical care and essential living expenses. The findings underscore ongoing economic burdens, especially for marginalized communities, highlighting the need for systemic change in healthcare affordability.