Median Medical Out-of-Pocket Spending

Measure Overview

While health insurance can help reduce the cost of health care services, health plan enrollees are normally required to pay for certain medical costs on their own (i.e., “out-of-pocket”). Examples of medical costs that may require OOP spending include premiums, copays, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and medical supplies. High medical out-of-pocket (OOP) spending poses an issue for individuals who seek healthcare but struggle to afford services not covered by their health insurance policy.

State Health Compare provides annual, state-level estimates of median OOP spending by population (either individuals with employer-sponsored coverage or individuals in the total U.S. population). These estimates reflect data collected in the Current Population Survey.

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