Overview

• A record 11% of Americans, or 29 million people, are classified as 'Cost Desperate,' unable to afford or access basic healthcare.
• More than one-third of Americans, approximately 91 million, report being unable to afford quality healthcare if needed.
• Hispanic and Black Americans face the steepest declines in healthcare security, with 18% and 14% respectively classified as 'Cost Desperate.'
• Lower-income households are disproportionately affected, with 64% of those earning under $24,000 annually unable to access affordable care, an 11% increase since 2023.
• Systemic factors such as rising medical costs, Medicaid cuts, and drug shortages are driving these disparities, prompting calls for urgent policy intervention.