Full Breakdown
Texans Demand Hospital Price Transparency as Health Care Costs Surge
5/18/2026, 6:44:12 AM
Voter Concerns Over Health Care Costs and Call for Transparency
A recent American Resolve poll of 600 likely voters in Texas found that more than 86 % are extremely or very concerned about the cost of health care. Approximately 60 % reported receiving a hospital bill higher than expected in the past year, and 93 % support requiring hospitals to disclose their prices. Nearly 70 % believe hospitals are doing a poor job of keeping care affordable.
Background and Context: Texas Health-Care Access Challenges
Texas ranks near the bottom of national health-care access metrics. The 2025 Commonwealth Scorecard placed the state among the four lowest for access, and the West Health Gallup Survey gave it a C + rating. America’s Health Rankings 2025 listed Texas 40th nationally, citing distance, long wait times and limited provider availability. The poll’s findings echo these systemic challenges, linking cost concerns to access barriers.
Data and Statistics
- 86 % of Texas voters are extremely or very concerned about health-care costs.
- 60 % have received a hospital bill higher than expected in the past year.
- 93 % support mandatory hospital price disclosure.
- 7 % of Texans are uninsured, roughly twice the national average.
- The state has 225 primary-care providers per 100,000 residents, the lowest ratio in the United States.
Official Statements and Responses
American Resolve Director West Cuthbert said the poll confirms widespread concern that health-care costs are high, unpredictable, and often hidden until patients receive a bill. He noted voters seek transparency, accountability and concrete solutions, describing the issue as non-partisan “common-sense reform.” He warned that the strong voter consensus should guide lawmakers on health-care policy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These findings confirm what families across Texas already know: health care costs are too high,too unpredictable, and too often hidden until it’s too late,” — West Cuthbert, Director, American Resolve
- “Voters want more than lip service and solidarity from lawmakers. They are demanding transparency, accountability and real solutions.” — West Cuthbert, Director, American Resolve
- “This is not a partisan issue, it’s common-sense reform,” — West Cuthbert, Director, American Resolve
- “When nearly every voter agrees on something, leaders should listen.” — West Cuthbert, Director, American Resolve
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The poll captures voter sentiment but lacks hospital or provider responses on price-disclosure, leaving a gap in understanding the feasibility of reforms.
What’s Next
The study suggests price-transparency could become a decisive issue for candidates in upcoming Texas elections, increasing pressure on lawmakers to mandate hospital price disclosure.
