Survey Reveals Staggering Medical Debt Impact on U.S. Patients

A recent survey conducted by ADAP Advocacy exposes the severe financial challenges patients face in accessing healthcare, revealing that medical debt has become a widespread issue affecting millions of Americans across various health conditions.

The study, which gathered responses from 673 participants, found that 77% of respondents delayed or avoided medical care due to financial constraints, with an additional 71% postponing prescription drug purchases. Approximately 74% of survey participants reported holding medical debt, predominantly owed to hospitals (39%) and specialty care physicians (22%).

The survey's most alarming findings indicate that 66% of those with medical debt have accounts in collections, and 40% reported negative impacts on their credit scores. Perhaps most critically, 70% of respondents noted that medical debt directly influenced their health status.

Brandon M. Macsata, CEO of ADAP Advocacy, expressed concern about hospital systems potentially misusing 340B Drug Pricing Program benefits, which are intended to expand affordable healthcare access but may not be fulfilling that mandate.

The report highlights a systemic issue where financial barriers prevent patients from receiving necessary medical treatment, potentially exacerbating health conditions and creating long-term economic challenges for individuals already struggling with healthcare costs.