have shown. But affordability challenges are only part of the story. A new report sheds light on factors in addition to cost that keep people from paying their medical bills.published by Cedar, a patient financial platform, ability to pay—not bad intentions—are the main reason people don’t pay their medical bills.
One-quarter said they wouldn’t be able to afford a surprise medical bill any larger than $250 and 15% said they couldn’t afford any unexpected medical expense. Not only are the actual financial burdens challenging consumers, the whole process of paying bills is stressful. Perhaps not surprisingly, one-third of respondents reported not feeling in control of their healthcare finances.
Having a solid cost estimate in hand would influence people to take control of their healthcare costs and behaviors. Notably, fully half of respondents said having a cost estimate before a healthcare visit would make them more likely to look for a better price from a different healthcare provider.Consumers definitely want help with their medical bills, but many don’t know that support may be available.