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27% of Americans Face Financial Toxicity from Medical Costs

12/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A JAMA Internal Medicine study documents financial toxicity from high medical expenses for 27% of Americans between 2018 and 2022.
The study tracked 12,600 participants.
Financial stress from medical costs rose over time.
Those with low incomes and chronic health issues were especially vulnerable to financial toxicity.
Researchers advocate national health insurance to reduce costs and improve access amid subsidies and Medicaid funding cuts.

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Story summary

A JAMA Internal Medicine study documents financial toxicity from high medical expenses for 27% of Americans between 2018 and 2022.
The study tracked 12,600 participants.
Financial stress from medical costs rose over time.
Those with low incomes and chronic health issues were especially vulnerable to financial toxicity.
Researchers advocate national health insurance to reduce costs and improve access amid subsidies and Medicaid funding cuts.