Millions of Americans are skipping meals or cutting back on utilities to afford health care

Many people in the United States are making difficult choices to pay for health care. A new survey by Gallup and West Health shows that millions are cutting back on basic needs like food, electricity, and transportation.

About one-third of adults — more than 82 million people — said they reduced at least one daily expense to afford medical costs. The study included nearly 20,000 adults and was conducted over several months. Experts say this shows a growing problem with the high cost of living and rising health care expenses.

One example is Sheila Nesbit, a 65-year-old retired librarian. After retiring, she learned that Medicare does not cover as much as her previous insurance. Because of this, she decided not to buy special shoe inserts and sometimes skips meals or medicine to save money. She also lowers her heating at home to reduce bills.

The problem is not only for poor people. Even middle-class families are struggling. Some people are borrowing money, driving less, or delaying important plans like medical treatment, buying a house, or retirement.

Experts warn that the situation may get worse in the future. Changes in government support and rising costs may leave more people without health insurance, making it even harder to afford proper care.

Edited using generative AI tools.
Source : https://edition.cnn.com/2026/03/12/health/americans-health-care-expenses-costs

Comprehension

What are some things people are cutting back on to pay for health care?
How many Americans are affected, according to the survey?
Who is Sheila Nesbit, and what problems does she face?
Why is health care becoming harder to afford?
What might happen in the future, according to experts?

Discussion

Why do you think health care is expensive in some countries?
Have you ever had to cut expenses for something important? Share your experience.
Do you think health care should be free? Why or why not?
How can governments help people afford medical care?
What are the dangers of skipping medicine or treatment?
Is this problem common in your country? Explain.
What would you do if you had to choose between food and medicine?
How can people better manage their health expenses?

Vocabulary

Sacrifice – giving up something important
Expense – money spent on something
Afford – to have enough money to pay for something
Retired – no longer working because of age
Insurance – a system that helps pay for medical costs
Delay – to do something later than planned
Borrow – to take money and promise to return it
Survey – a study that collects information from people