Health care costs in America can vary widely depending on where you live. A study by WalletHub examined the best and worst states for health care. They looked at three key factors: cost, accessibility, and outcomes.
Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, emphasized that balance is crucial. He said, “Good health care needs to be both affordable and effective. Great services that drain your wallet aren’t helpful. On the other hand, cheap care isn’t worth it if it doesn’t work.” This balance of quality and cost is what makes certain states stand out.
New Hampshire shines as the top state for health care. According to the study, it has the fourth-lowest out-of-pocket spending in the country. Residents typically pay around $470 per month for health insurance. New Hampshire also has a high number of nurses and physician assistants, ensuring that quality care is accessible. Interestingly, it ranks low in serious health conditions, with fewer cases of coronary heart disease and type-2 diabetes.
Following New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Minnesota also ranked highly for their health care systems. On the flip side, Mississippi came in last. Residents there spend a significant portion of their income on health care, about 18.66% of their median household income, according to WalletHub’s analysis.
In 2022, the average American spent nearly $14,600 on personal health care. This is a substantial amount, especially when compared to other wealthy countries. Research by the Kaiser Family Foundation highlights that the U.S. often falls short in areas like health coverage and life expectancy. So, high spending doesn’t always equate to better health outcomes.
Interestingly, there are signs of progress. More people, especially those in poorer health, are gaining access to necessary care. Costs are also not growing as fast as they once did.
With evolving health care trends, it’s essential for individuals to be informed about the best resources in their states. Understanding where to find better care without breaking the bank can be a significant advantage.
For a deeper dive into health care statistics, check out WalletHub’s report [here](https://wallethub.com/edu/states-with-best-health-care/23457).
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