North Carolina families are grappling with soaring health care costs, a new survey reveals, posing a significant burden as the state prepares to roll out a program aimed at easing medical debt.
The survey, conducted by researchers from four universities, paints a worrying picture: nearly two-thirds (61%) of residents find it somewhat or very difficult to afford health care, with 20% struggling significantly.
The burden is creating anxiety even for those who haven’t faced immediate financial hardship: Three out of every four North Carolinians are deeply concerned about facing unforeseen medical bills, with over a third admitting they’ve been forced to put health care costs on a credit card due to inability to pay out-of-pocket.
These financial worries have real-world consequences. Many families delay or entirely skip seeking necessary medical attention due to cost, a choice that can lead to more serious health problems down the line as small issues escalate into larger ones.
“It highlights that although the economy, by many metrics, is doing very, very well, most people are vulnerable to unexpected bills, and health care is probably the biggest single source of unexpected bills,” said a spokesperson for the research team.
The same survey found that the economy, inflation, and health care are the top three issues on voters’ minds in the current election.
Adding to the concern, a significant number of North Carolinians – over 40% – believe they have received medical bills containing errors. While most of those who disputed these errors were successful, the prevalence of billing mistakes highlights the complex and often confusing nature of medical billing.
The findings come as North Carolina embarks on a new medical debt relief program that requires hospitals to forgive past medical debt for low- and middle-income patients, while also strengthening their charity care policies. This initiative is part of a larger effort to address the state’s high healthcare costs and mounting medical debt, which rank among the highest in the nation.
Time.news Editor: Welcome to today’s special interview on health care costs in North Carolina. We have with us Dr. Emily Rodriguez, a health economist and researcher who has worked extensively on issues related to medical debt and access to care. Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right into the findings of the recent survey conducted by researchers from four universities. It revealed that 61% of North Carolinians find it difficult to afford health care. What do you think are the primary reasons behind these challenges?
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: There are several factors at play. First, we have to consider the rising costs of medical services and medications, which have outpaced wage growth for many families. Secondly, the complexity of insurance plans often leaves individuals uncertain about what their out-of-pocket costs will be, creating additional anxiety about accessing necessary care.
Time.news Editor: Interesting point. You mentioned anxiety, which I found striking in the survey. Even for those who haven’t faced immediate financial hardship, three out of four residents report feeling stressed about health care costs. Why do you think that is?
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: It’s about uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Many people live paycheck to paycheck, and the idea of needing medical assistance, whether it’s a sudden illness or an accident, triggers a very real fear of incurring debt. This anxiety can impact mental health and well-being, even if they haven’t faced a major medical expense yet.
Time.news Editor: It’s alarming to think about the broader implications of this anxiety. With the state preparing to roll out a program aimed at easing medical debt, what do you think are the crucial elements that will make this program effective?
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: For such a program to be effective, it must be comprehensive and accessible. This means not just addressing existing debt but also providing education on navigating health care costs and insurance. Additionally, support must be tailored to different communities, as the impact of medical debt can vary widely based on socioeconomic factors. It’s also important to involve non-profit organizations and health care providers in ensuring that individuals know about the resources available to them.
Time.news Editor: It sounds vital to have a multi-faceted approach. How do you think community engagement can play a role in both the program’s success and the overall reduction of medical debt in North Carolina?
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: Community engagement is crucial. Local organizations can help raise awareness about the program and its benefits. Workshops and interactive sessions can empower individuals with financial literacy regarding health care and encourage discussions on collective strategies to manage costs. When communities come together, they often develop innovative ways to support one another in navigating these challenges.
Time.news Editor: Those are great insights, Dr. Rodriguez. As we look ahead, what do you believe will be the long-term solutions needed to truly tackle high health care costs and the stress of medical debt in North Carolina?
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: Long-term solutions will require systemic change. We need policymakers to prioritize health care affordability and access, possibly considering options like universal basic health coverage. There should also be a focus on preventive care to reduce the need for more expensive treatments down the line. Ultimately, the goal should be a health care system that serves everyone, without imposing unbearable financial burdens on families.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for your valuable insights on this pressing issue. It’s clear that addressing health care costs and medical debt is critical for the well-being of North Carolinians. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Emily Rodriguez: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep these conversations going as we work towards solutions together.
