Most Coloradoans Skip or Delay Medical Care Due to Cost 

By Consumers for Quality Care, on August 28, 2024

A study conducted by the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, and reported by Colorado Public Radio, found that two-thirds of respondents have skipped or delayed medical care in the last year because of cost. Another 75 percent of consumers reported a health-affordability issue in the same period. 

These findings are consistent with research conducted in 2022 by CQC, which found that 60 percent of consumers have skipped or delayed medical care because of concerns about out-of-pocket expenses. 

“The data shows us that there are still high levels of worry and concern and respondents wanting to see more policies around transparency,” said Beth Beaudin-Seiler, Director of Applied Research and Analytics at Altarum Healthcare Value Hub. Adam Fox, Deputy Director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative (CCHI), added that, “it really underscores the depth of the challenges around health care affordability.” 

Skipping or delaying medical care disproportionally affects vulnerable communities, most notably people of color, low-income consumers, and those with disabilities. Those that incur medical bills find themselves either in medical debt, depleting their savings, or cutting back on necessities, like food, clothing, and shelter.  

Respondents called for greater price transparency in the health care system and for increased efforts to make health care more affordable for everyone.  

Patients should never have to defer medical care because of the complexities of the health care system or for fear of falling into financial ruin. Policymakers must fix the health care system to ensure all consumers can access the care they need.