A new Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF) poll highlights the growing challenges Texans face in accessing and affording healthcare. The survey found that 63% of Texans have skipped medical care due to cost, and 41% struggle to pay medical bills. Texas, which has the highest uninsured rate in the country, remains one of the few states that has yet to expand Medicaid.
Medical Debt & Disparities
Healthcare costs are particularly burdensome in North Texas, where Tarrant and Dallas Counties rank among the top U.S. urban areas for medical debt. Additionally, people of color experience greater difficulties affording care, with 58% of Hispanic respondents, 40% of Black respondents, and 37% of White respondents reporting financial hardship.
Although affordability has slightly improved since 2022, nearly half of working-age adults (18-64) still report difficulty affording care. The survey also found that broader economic and social factors—such as affordable housing, well-paying jobs, and public transportation—significantly impact healthcare access.
The Cost of Preventable Health Issues
Obesity and diabetes remain leading health concerns in Texas, with 75% of Texans citing obesity and 67% naming diabetes as major issues. Studies show that preventative care not only improves health outcomes but also reduces overall costs. Research indicates that for every $1 Texas spends on Medicaid expansion, the state could see a $1.29 return in government revenue over ten years due to savings from proactive healthcare measures.
Response from TexHealth President & CEO Jim Rodriguez
One statistic from the survey stands out: “Nearly half of people aged 18-64 said they have difficulty affording care, compared to around 30 percent of those over 65.” This working-age population is the backbone of Texas, and if they struggle to afford healthcare, the cost of care will only continue to rise. Why?
When health issues go untreated, they tend to worsen over time, leading to higher costs and more severe complications. It’s like car maintenance—If you hear a grinding noise when you brake but ignore it, you’ll eventually wear down the rotors, requiring a costly replacement. However, if you address the issue early by replacing the brake pads, you avoid a much bigger repair bill. Your body operates the same way—it requires regular maintenance, proper care, and good nutrition to stay in optimal condition. Early intervention saves both lives and money.
Fortunately, there’s a solution for working-age adults struggling with healthcare costs: premium assistance. Programs like TexHealth provide financial support, putting more money in your pocket to cover medical visits. In fact, TexHealth offers $110 per month, which can significantly offset expenses. For those with fully insured or level-funded plans, this amount may cover co-pays entirely. If you have a bronze plan with an unmet deductible, $110 could cover most—if not all—of a doctor’s visit.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. TexHealth Central Texas is here to help. If you’re struggling to afford medical care, contact us. And if we can’t assist directly, we’ll do everything possible to find a solution for you