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82 Million Americans Sacrifice Essentials for Healthcare Costs

3/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The West Health-Gallup Center survey finds about one-third of Americans, over 82 million, cutting daily expenses to pay for healthcare.
Among the uninsured, 62% have sacrificed spending to afford care.
The report describes an affordability crisis as rising costs align with declining health.
Many have postponed life events, such as buying homes or retiring, due to finances.

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Story summary

The West Health-Gallup Center survey finds about one-third of Americans, over 82 million, cutting daily expenses to pay for healthcare.
Among the uninsured, 62% have sacrificed spending to afford care.
The report describes an affordability crisis as rising costs align with declining health.
Many have postponed life events, such as buying homes or retiring, due to finances.