The Tamesis
One-third of Americans are cutting back on daily living expenses, skipping meals and taking prescription drugs longer to be able to afford health care, according to a new poll from Gallup Health West.
About 82 million Americans in low-, middle- and high-income brackets said they were spending less on utilities, driving less to save gas and taking other steps to pay for medical expenses, the research center said. They also reported borrowing money and cutting utility bills to pay for medical expenses, the study said.
The findings come as Americans face serious challenges Higher gas and energy costs because iran warcomposite long-term affordability crunch.
Millions of people are also coping Higher health insurance costs Lawmakers allowed Affordable Care Act tax credits to expire on Dec. 31.
Research shows budget cuts are more common among Americans without health insurance, with more than 60% saying they have made at least one financial sacrifice, such as borrowing money to pay for medical expenses.
Nearly one in 10 adults (about 24 million people) say medical costs are forcing them to delay retirement. Americans also made other sacrifices, such as delaying changing jobs, buying a new home or starting a family.
