The Financial Burden of Inadequate Health Insurance Coverage

Medical expenses account for over half of all bankruptcy claims in the United States, usually owing to lack of medical insurance.1 Thus, insurance coverage reduces the risk of substantial financial hardship and bankruptcy when expensive health care is needed owing to accidents or chronic conditions, or when acute and/or unexpected illnesses occur. Because of gaps in coverage and payment for health care services by insurance providers, covered individuals may still face financial hardship from medical bills even with routine health care and prevention, and such financial stresses are most pronounced among individuals with multiple chronic conditions.