Jeff King was recovering from an unexpected procedure to fix his irregular heart rhythm when he received shocking news.
The hospital had given him a $160,000 (£119,00) bill for the treatment. King, a former pastor, did not have standard health insurance from his employer, only a cost-sharing alternative plan that said it would not cover the procedure.
It was pretty traumatic, said the 66-year-old from Lawrence, Kansas. Who knew that less than a one-day procedure in and out of the hospital could destroy us financially?
King is one of around 100 million people - or about 40% of Americans - who are estimated to struggle to pay off their medical and dental healthcare debt, according to recent data. The U.S. has one of the most expensive health systems globally, with healthcare spending estimated to reach $5.9 trillion (£4.3 trillion) in 2026.
As healthcare costs have continued to grow, so have frustrations among Americans with the system. Many are calling for reform, yet tangible solutions seem to elude lawmakers, leaving citizens in dire straits.
Despite the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) efforts to improve healthcare accessibility, a significant portion of the population is still without adequate insurance, and nearly one in five Americans report their health insurance provider has refused to cover necessary care.
The increase in healthcare premium costs after the expiration of COVID-related subsidies pressures many into difficult choices, such as skipping necessary medical appointments. As the political debate rages on, real solutions that address affordability and access remain a critical need for millions.
