What's Happening?
New data from the West Health-Gallup Affordability Index reveals that fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford healthcare, placing additional pressure on nonprofit healthcare systems. As of 2025, only 49% of U.S. adults are classified as 'Cost
Secure,' meaning they can afford access to quality care and have been able to pay for visits and prescriptions recently. This marks a decline from 56% in 2021 and a peak of 61% in 2022. The decline in affordability is particularly pronounced among Black and Hispanic adults, with only 38% and 32% respectively classified as Cost Secure, compared to 55% of White adults. The study, conducted by the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America, highlights the growing financial strain on Americans and the nonprofit healthcare sector.
Why It's Important?
The decline in healthcare affordability has significant implications for public health and the nonprofit sector. As more Americans struggle to afford healthcare, nonprofit healthcare providers face increased demand for services without a corresponding increase in resources. This situation could lead to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and increased financial strain on nonprofit organizations. The disparities in healthcare affordability among different racial groups also highlight ongoing issues of inequality in the U.S. healthcare system. Addressing these challenges will require policy interventions to improve healthcare affordability and access, particularly for marginalized communities.
