Texas is facing serious challenges in health care, ranking near the bottom in a recent Gallup poll. The survey reveals that Texas ranks 48th in health care experience, with only New Mexico, Nevada, and Alaska faring worse.
Many Texans are feeling the financial strain. About 28% say they view health care costs as a major burden. Nearly half, 44%, have skipped recommended procedures or tests because they simply can’t afford them. Additionally, 35% reported missing doses of prescribed medications to make their prescriptions last longer.
The state also struggles with quality and access. Only 26% of Texans feel their doctors truly understand their health needs. Access is constrained, with 40% citing distance to medical facilities or long wait times as barriers to care. Just 47% say they find it easy to get medical help when they need it.
With the expiration of Biden-era tax credits approaching, health care costs in Texas are expected to rise dramatically. Experts predict that average premiums might skyrocket by more than 115%, increasing a typical family’s costs from $1,600 to over $3,400 monthly. This is particularly concerning because Texas did not expand Medicaid, meaning millions rely on private insurance.
Many people fear losing coverage, especially since Texas already has the highest rate of uninsured residents in the U.S.—about 17%. This could easily jump above 20% if costs continue to rise.
A proposal from the White House aims to extend subsidies to ease these burdens for another two years, but details remain unclear.
As the health care landscape shifts, Texans are left to wonder how they’ll navigate the rising costs and access issues. The stakes are high, and the need for change is urgent.
For more details on how these changes might affect you, you can visit the Gallup poll or the Texas Association of Health Plans.
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