Many Unemployed People Forgo Care Because of Cost
Nearly three out of four unemployed U.S. residents have skipped necessary care or did not fill a prescription because of concerns about cost, according to a study by the Commonwealth Fund. The study found that 72% of unemployed U.S. residents avoided recommended tests or treatments, did not go to a physician or clinic for health issues, passed up seeing a specialist or did not fill a prescription because of cost. The study also found that 27% of unemployed U.S. residents could not afford necessities such as food or rent because of medical bills.
- "Job Loss Puts Many in Medical Debt" (United Press International, 8/24).
- "Job Losses Added 8.5 Million to Ranks of Uninsured" (Walker, MedPage Today, 8/25).
- "Report: 72% of People Who Lost Jobs, Health Insurance Skip Needed Health Care" (Herman, Becker's Hospital Review, 8/24).