Tackling the Medical Debt Crisis | Center on Health Insurance Reforms
person writing on paper across the table from another person

Tackling the Medical Debt Crisis

In the U.S., both uninsured and insured patients face the growing threat of medical debt. Rising deductibles, gaps in coverage, and high out-of-pocket costs mean that even those with insurance can end up owing thousands for essential care. Medical debt, or personal debt from unpaid medical bills, affects an estimated 100 million people, disrupting lives, draining savings, and even costing families their homes. The problem is not only widespread but deeply inequitable, with disproportionate impact on people of color and those with low incomes.

calculator atop clipboard with paper reading "Medical Billing Statement"

What We Do

At CHIR, we examine the full landscape of policies that can both prevent and mitigate the negative downstream impacts of medical debt. Through state-by-state policy mapping, analysis of federal gaps, and targeted technical assistance, we equip policymakers, advocates, and health system leaders with the tools to build protections that shield patients from the cascading harms of medical debt.

What We’re Working On

What's New

Blog Posts

Publications