42% of Americans Delay Medical Care as Inflation Pushes Basics Out of Reach for 64%
Updated
Updated · AOL · Aug 8
42% of Americans Delay Medical Care as Inflation Pushes Basics Out of Reach for 64%
1 articles · Updated · AOL · Aug 8
Summary
42% of Americans have skipped or delayed medical care because of inflation, according to eHealth research cited in the latest consumer guidance.
64% say rising prices have made basics such as food, housing and clothing feel out of reach, driving experts to urge households to cut costs without postponing treatment.
ACA marketplace comparison shopping and fuller use of existing coverage — including no-cost preventive care, Medicare plan reviews and some grocery-related benefits — were highlighted as the first line of defense.
HSAs, which take pre-tax contributions and roll funds over year to year, were cited as a buffer for unexpected medical bills, while meal planning around weekly sales, shopping lists and store apps can trim grocery spending.
Experts warned that delaying care to save money now can worsen chronic conditions such as diabetes and lead to higher medical bills later.