Data analyzed by

State Health Compare

Percent who had trouble paying off medical bills in the past year

Measure Overview

The cost of health care in the United States is one of the highest in the world. Rising healthcare costs over the past five decades have made it difficult for some Americans to afford healthcare services. Tracking the prevalence of individuals who struggle to pay their medical bills is a key part in addressing the overarching issue of healthcare affordability in the U.S.

State Health Compare provides annual, state-level rates of individuals who, in the past 12 months struggled to pay off medical bills. These rates derive from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and can be viewed by type of health insurance coverage, and age group.

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