Rising Health Costs Stir Anxiety: What's Next for U.S. Adults?
Americans face unprecedented anxiety over health costs as 2026 approaches. With political debates unresolved, the pressure on families intensifies.
As we inch closer to 2026, a record number of Americans find themselves grappling with escalating anxiety over health care costs. A recent survey conducted by West Health and Gallup reveals that almost half of U.S. adults are worried they won’t be able to afford necessary health care in the upcoming year. This is the highest level of concern since tracking began in 2021.
Mounting Concerns Over Prescription Costs
The survey also highlights an increase in concerns over prescription drug expenses, rising from 30% in 2021 to 37% in 2025. Such figures paint a distressing portrait of health care affordability in the U.S., where nearly one-third of adults admitted to delaying or forgoing medical care due to financial constraints.
Political and Economic Turmoil
Health care affordability has transitioned from being a political buzzword to a visceral issue impacting everyday life. The debate surrounding the renewal of Affordable Care Act subsidies has already led to significant political strife, underscoring the urgent need for solutions. Timothy Lash, President of West Health, notes that “Americans are saying, ‘Hey, now that I really think about it, I’m paying too much and I’m not getting enough.’”
State-by-State Disparities
The survey sheds light on disparities across states in accessing and affording health care. While states like Iowa and Massachusetts rank highest in overall health care experiences, others such as Texas and Alaska lag significantly behind. In Texas, for instance, 43% of residents reported skipping medical care due to cost issues. Beyond financial barriers, long wait times and work schedules further restrict access to care.
Implications for the Future
The need for affordable health care is more pressing than ever, with financial strain intensifying across the nation. As stated in NBC News, “public anxiety around accessing affordable health care is only poised to grow.” The findings indicate that political and economic pressures are unlikely to abate soon. Both Congress and state governments face mounting pressure to address these looming challenges head-on.
A Call to Action
Stakeholders, policymakers, and the medical community must work together to confront these issues, aiming to ensure that health care in the United States is equitable and accessible for all. Absent strategic interventions, the anxiety that permeates the population may not only persist but also escalate, affecting the nation’s overall well-being in the years to come.
