Healthcare Costs: A Growing Concern for Americans

In 2025, a significant number of Americans are feeling the pinch when it comes to healthcare expenses. A recent survey reveals that nearly half of the adults in the country are anxious about affording medical care in the upcoming year. This worry is the highest it has been in the past four years.

Survey Insights

The survey, which included responses from nearly 20,000 people across all 50 states, provides a comprehensive look at how Americans are managing healthcare costs, quality, and access. The findings show a stark contrast between states:

• Top Performers: Iowa and Massachusetts are excelling in cost, quality, and access to care.
• Struggling States: Alaska, Arkansas, and Texas are facing challenges, with residents struggling to pay for medications and access necessary services.

Financial and Access Barriers

Even in the best-performing states, many people are still struggling:

• Top 10 States: 25% of adults have skipped recommended care due to cost.
• Bottom 10 States: This number jumps to 40%.
• Prescription Affordability:
• Top States: 15% couldn’t afford a prescription in the last three months.
• Bottom States: 29% faced the same issue.

Long Wait Times

Over half of Americans report that long wait times have prevented or postponed needed care. This issue is particularly severe in Vermont (72%), compared to Nebraska (46%), a top state for access.

Gaps in Care

The survey also highlights significant gaps in prescription access, preventive care, and finding providers:

• New Mexico: 36% of adults said they didn’t know how to find a medical professional when needed.
• Iowa: Only 14% faced this issue.

Overall Grades

Americans gave the U.S. healthcare system a C grade, with:

• Cost: D+
• Quality and Access: C+

No states earned an A in any category, indicating that there is still much room for improvement.