One-third of Americans are cutting back on essentials to pay for health care

By HPN Staff

About one-third of U.S. adults said they reduced spending on food, utilities and more in 2025 to cover health care costs, according to a newly released West Health-Gallup survey. The survey found that Americans without health insurance are more likely to make financial trade-offs to cover health care. About 62 percent said they had made at least one sacrifice, such as borrowing money or delaying medications. Even among people with coverage, roughly three in 10 reported making at least one sacrifice to pay for care.

The survey underscores how rising health care costs are shaping daily decisions for millions of Americans. Even families with coverage are making trade-offs that affect household budgets, retirement planning and work choices.

Why it matters

Health care affordability remains a top concern for voters, driving ongoing policy discussions across party lines. Repeated bipartisan negotiations have focused on expanding subsidies for self-employed Americans and reducing out-of-pocket costs. Amid these conversations, President Donald J. Trump unveiled the “Great Health Care Plan,” a four-part framework aimed at lowering drug prices, reducing insurance premiums, holding insurers accountable and expanding price transparency.

Trump has described the plan as a consumer-focused alternative that puts Americans first. “We’re calling it the Great Health Care Plan. Instead of putting the needs of big corporations and special interests first, our plan finally puts you first and puts more money in your pocket,” he said.

The plan emphasizes market-based reforms and patient empowerment. By improving price transparency and accountability, it aims to help families make informed choices and better manage health care expenses. Several elements of the framework are viewed favorably by conservative policymakers and signal where Republican health care priorities are likely to focus in future legislative proposals. 

The bigger picture

The survey shows that many Americans are already making tough choices to manage health care costs, from borrowing money to delaying medications. 

Trump’s Great Health Care Plan arrives against that backdrop, highlighting the ongoing political focus on affordability and signaling where Republican discussions are likely to center in the months ahead. 

Even if congressional action remains uncertain, the plan reflects recognition of the financial pressures households face and the broader effort to make health care more manageable for everyday Americans.