Source: Kaiser Family Foundation/New York Times
Published: January 2016
n = 2,575 respondents ages 18–64

Medical Debt in America

Circulated: October 22, 2019

Medical debt is a growing problem, with many Americans experiencing financial instability and even bankruptcy.

• 32% have postponed getting medical care they need because of the cost.

• 34% say their doctor never explains the costs of procedures to them.

• 69% of those who tried to shop around called the experience difficult.

Among those with medical bill problems:

• 44% say those problems had a major impact on their family.

• 37% say they borrowed money from friends or family.

• 34% say they increased their credit card debt.