Use this field guide to examine how cost affects health decisions, prepare questions for a provider or health plan, locate legitimate assistance, preserve records, and respond to changing coverage rules. It is designed for community members, families, caregivers, students, advocates, and navigators.
The 2026 California Health Care Foundation survey was conducted with NORC in late 2025. It found that 59% of California adults said they or a family member skipped or delayed care because of cost during the prior 12 months. The share was 70% among respondents with low incomes. These findings describe survey experiences; they do not predict what will happen to any one person.
The West Health-Gallup Healthcare Affordability Index classified 49% of U.S. adults as Cost Secure in 2025, down from a peak of 61% in 2022. Cost Secure combines self-reported access to quality, affordable care with recent ability to pay for needed care and medicine.
Educational purpose: This guide provides general public-health education and navigation information. It is not medical, legal, insurance, or financial advice. Individual eligibility and coverage rules vary.
Donation $5.00
Use this field guide to examine how cost affects health decisions, prepare questions for a provider or health plan, locate legitimate assistance, preserve records, and respond to changing coverage rules. It is designed for community members, families, caregivers, students, advocates, and navigators.
The 2026 California Health Care Foundation survey was conducted with NORC in late 2025. It found that 59% of California adults said they or a family member skipped or delayed care because of cost during the prior 12 months. The share was 70% among respondents with low incomes. These findings describe survey experiences; they do not predict what will happen to any one person.
The West Health-Gallup Healthcare Affordability Index classified 49% of U.S. adults as Cost Secure in 2025, down from a peak of 61% in 2022. Cost Secure combines self-reported access to quality, affordable care with recent ability to pay for needed care and medicine.
Educational purpose: This guide provides general public-health education and navigation information. It is not medical, legal, insurance, or financial advice. Individual eligibility and coverage rules vary.
Donation $5.00
