The Rising Tide of Healthcare Costs

The Jarrard study, conducted among 1,049 U.S. adults, highlights nine key areas of financial strain for American healthcare consumers. Nearly six in ten (59%) report difficulty paying medical bills, while 55% are delaying necessary medical care due to cost. A similar percentage (55%) are unable to afford health insurance altogether, and an equal proportion are actively avoiding care to minimize expenses. Insurance-related delays and denials further exacerbate the problem, impacting 54% of respondents in each category.

Beyond direct costs, many Americans are making significant sacrifices to maintain healthcare coverage. Over half (54%) are cutting back on other household expenses to afford insurance, and nearly 40% fear losing their coverage entirely. Difficulty affording prescription medications is also a major concern for 51% of those surveyed.

Profit vs. Patient Care: A Growing Divide

The financial pressures are fueling a growing perception that hospitals are prioritizing profits over patient care. Four in ten Americans believe hospitals place money “far above” patients, with another 30% sharing a similar sentiment. A mere 3% believe hospitals prioritize patient care above all else, and only 9% feel the balance slightly favors patient well-being.

This lack of confidence translates into diminished expectations for the future. Less than half (43%) of U.S. patients express confidence that hospitals will deliver quality care in the years ahead. This erosion of trust has significant implications for the healthcare industry and the overall health of the population.

ACA and Medicaid Changes Fuel Uncertainty

Adding to the anxiety, over half of U.S. consumers anticipate negative consequences from changes to ACA subsidies and Medicaid. Only one in four believe these funding adjustments will have a positive impact, suggesting widespread concern about access to affordable healthcare.

The Enduring Trust in Clinicians

Amidst this widespread concern, one bright spot emerges: the enduring trust in doctors and nurses. Americans consistently rank clinicians as the most trusted sources of healthcare information, far exceeding their trust in health agencies, insurance companies, media outlets, pharmaceutical companies, and politicians. This trust is a critical asset for healthcare organizations.

Nine in ten U.S. consumers expect to hear about policy changes from provider organizations, reinforcing the importance of clinicians as key communicators. Supporting and empowering these trusted professionals to partner with patients is crucial for navigating the evolving healthcare landscape.

What steps can healthcare providers take to rebuild trust with patients facing rising costs? And how can policymakers address the growing anxieties surrounding healthcare affordability and access?

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Costs