Financial concerns related to unexpected medical bills and healthcare costs are the primary issues on the minds of American voters, as per a recent Health Tracking Poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). The poll also revealed that these voters are eager for the 2024 presidential candidates to address these concerns.
According to a KFF press release, nearly three-quarters of adults surveyed, or 74%, expressed concern about affording unexpected medical bills. Similarly, 73% were worried about the cost of healthcare services. These two healthcare-related anxieties surpassed other everyday expenses such as gas, utilities, food and housing. Prescription drug costs followed closely behind with 55% expressing concern. KFF noted that these worries topped the list for both Republicans and Democrats.
The press release further highlighted that close to half of the voters surveyed, or 48%, perceive healthcare costs as a significant factor contributing to their negative view of the U.S. economy. However, KFF pointed out that larger percentages attribute their pessimistic economic outlook to everyday expenses, inflation and housing costs. Overall, 67% of survey respondents hold a negative view of the economy. Interestingly, Republicans are twice as likely as Democrats to perceive the economy negatively.
The survey also revealed that one in five adults, or 19%, struggle to afford their monthly bills while nearly four in ten, or 37%, can just manage their monthly expenses. According to KFF's press release, these groups hold starkly different views compared to those who can comfortably afford their bills with money left over – accounting for 44% of all adults surveyed. Those struggling financially are more likely to hold a negative perception of the U.S. economy and express a desire for presidential candidates to address healthcare costs and Medicaid's future.
The KFF survey was conducted online and via phone from January 30 through February 7, 2024. It included a nationally representative sample of 1,309 U.S. adults, with 1,055 registered voters.
