Marketplace Morning Report The rise of cash-only care
Dec 16, 2025
David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist at JPMorgan Funds, discusses the implications of a weak labor market and expectations surrounding the Federal Reserve. Meanwhile, Marketplace reporter Alex Olgin dives into the rising trend of cash-only care as health insurance costs soar. She highlights patients’ experiences and advantages of direct primary care, showcasing its potential to cut costs and enhance access to healthcare. The conversation also covers the challenges of going uninsured and the expanding landscape of cash-only medical practices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Patient Finds Relief With Direct Primary Care
- Brittany Pollard switched from marketplace insurance to a direct primary care membership and saw faster progress on chronic pain in six weeks.
- She pays $90 monthly for unlimited access and values being listened to by Dr. Amy Schrader.
Gig Workers Opt Out Because Deductibles Bite
- Many gig workers choose cash-only primary care because high deductibles made insurance effectively unusable.
- Direct primary care offers discounted cash rates for tests while acknowledging it isn't a full substitute for insurance.
Use Direct Primary Care To Cut Routine Costs
- Consider signing up for direct primary care memberships if insurance costs and administrative barriers block access.
- Use cheaper cash rates for labs and imaging through your physician while keeping separate catastrophic coverage if possible.