URGENT UPDATE: A staggering 69% of Americans are voicing serious concerns over the affordability of health insurance, with many contemplating avoiding medical treatments due to escalating costs. This alarming trend comes from a recent Scripps News/Talker Research poll, revealing the deep-rooted anxiety as the country approaches the open enrollment period for health coverage.
With 37% of respondents categorizing their worries as “very concerned,” the poll underscores the urgent need for solutions. Over 70% of participants expressed fears about handling medical emergencies, while 65% are anxious about covering prescription costs. This widespread distress coincides with rising health care expenses, leaving many Americans overwhelmed.
“Anytime things like health insurance increase, it makes you uncomfortable. Right now, everything is expensive,” said Sequoia Ross, a teacher interviewed by Scripps News Richmond. “I don’t need my insurance to also be a thorn in my side. I have to have it.”
The situation is dire, as 40% of Americans report forgoing medical treatment due to high costs, with 29% admitting to doing so multiple times. Dr. Omer Awan, vice chair of education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, emphasized the unacceptable reality that 40% of Americans cannot afford necessary health care. “It should be zero out of 10 Americans. We are one of the wealthiest nations, and it is unacceptable that so many struggle to afford health care,” he stated.
Dr. Awan warns that neglecting health care due to high insurance premiums could lead to more severe health issues in the long run, driving up costs even further. “Over time, that is going to result in people getting sicker and then using the hospital much later on, when they need it and when it’s too late,” he added.
The poll results arrive as health care emerges as a critical topic in Washington, with Democrats striving to include subsidies for the Affordable Care Act health exchanges in negotiations to reopen the government. Open enrollment has already begun on HealthCare.gov, and many Americans face potential price hikes if tax credits are not extended.
Those obtaining insurance through their employers are also bracing for significant cost increases, with respondents from all age groups and political affiliations expressing concern. A notable 60% anticipate rising health costs, including a majority from Generation Z, millennials, Generation X, baby boomers, and the Silent Generation.
Health care has now become the second-most pressing national issue, trailing only behind inflation and the cost of goods. The survey indicates that 50% of respondents hold insurance companies responsible for soaring costs, compared to 46% who blame elected officials. Notably, Democrats are more likely to accuse politicians of culpability, with 55% attributing blame to them versus 36% of Republicans.
Public opinion on President Donald Trump regarding health care is also low, with only 37% of respondents approving of his performance on the issue.
As the nation grapples with these pressing concerns, the urgency for reform in health insurance practices has never been clearer. With the open enrollment period in full swing, Americans are left to navigate an increasingly complex and costly health care landscape. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
