Study Finds One-Third of Insured Americans Carry Outstanding Medical Debt

A recent survey conducted by the Commonwealth Fund found that about one-third of working-age Americans with health insurance also have outstanding medical bills or debt. The survey found that hospitals are the main creditors, with 64 percent of those with medical debt stating it originated from hospital services such as inpatient, outpatient, or emergency department care. The report also noted that nearly half of respondents reported having $2,000 or more in unpaid medical bills.

The findings suggest that the financial health of the U.S. healthcare system is under strain, as many insured individuals are burdened by medical costs. The report indicates that many those with medical debt blamed insurance companies or the broader healthcare system for the issue.