WASHINGTON, United States, March 12, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - One in three Americans said they made some sacrifice last year -- like skipping a meal or rationing medicine -- to cover health care costs, according to a survey released Thursday. High health care costs, especially compared to peer nations, represent a significant portion of many Americans' strained budgets, prompting some to choose to drive less to save on gas, cut back on electricity and borrow money to make ends meet. Another survey of 5,660 Americans at the end of 2025 from West Health found many Americans are delaying medical treatments and surgical procedures because of exorbitant healthcare costs. The public health program aimed at aiding low-income households was shielding millions from higher health insurance costs. The United States does not have a universal public health insurance system comparable to France and other developed countries.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 12, 2026 04:31 UTC