Why middle-class Americans are saddled with the most medical debt
Aug 22, 2023
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The podcast explores the reasons why middle-class Americans have the highest rates of medical debt. It discusses the impact of medical debt on access to healthcare and the teacher shortage in America. The ongoing shortage of school bus drivers and the retirement of the voice actor behind Super Mario are also explored. Finally, the podcast discusses the summer of nostalgia and changes in the gaming world.
Almost 25% of middle-class Americans have unpaid medical bills, highlighting the higher rates of medical debt within this income bracket.
The prevalence of medical debt among middle-class and lower-income Americans leads to healthcare decisions being influenced by financial concerns and can result in worse health outcomes.
Deep dives
Middle-Class Americans Have High Rates of Medical Debt
According to a new report, nearly one in four middle-class Americans, earning between $50,000 to $100,000 a year, have unpaid medical bills. This group has higher rates of medical debt compared to those with lower incomes. The report also reveals disparities within the middle class, with younger people more likely to have debt, and black and Hispanic middle-class individuals more likely to have medical debt than their white counterparts.
Healthcare Decisions Impacted by Medical Debt
The high prevalence of medical debt among middle-class and lower-income Americans affects healthcare decisions. Many people, concerned about the financial impact, delay or forgo necessary care, leading to worse health outcomes. Examples include patients skipping cancer treatments or spacing out insulin refills. The impact of medical debt on healthcare choices underscores the importance of addressing this issue.
Medical Debt's Impact on Credit and Overall Healthcare
Congress has made some changes to address the issue of medical debt, including excluding paid medical collection debt from credit reports and extending the time period before unpaid debt appears on a consumer's report. However, the high prevalence of medical debt remains a significant economic and health issue in the United States. It not only creates financial burdens but also contributes to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and worsening of chronic health conditions.
At least 100 million Americans have some sort of medical debt. But, the group with the highest rates of medical debt might surprise you.
The big picture: Nearly 1 in 4 middle-class Americans, people who earn $50,000-$100,000 a year, have unpaid medical bills, according to a new report from the think tank Third Way. We take a look at why middle-class Americans have the highest rates of medical debt.
Credits: Axios Today was produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can send questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.