None — Health Care Spending in the U.S.
Health care accounts for a large portion of expenses to the nation's economy and the consumer wallet. Today, Americans are paying more than ever for health care. In 1990, researchers report about $715 billion was spent on health care in the U.S. By 2008, costs had more than tripled, to $2.3 trillion. In 2009, health care costs reached $2.5 trillion.
According to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, the largest percentage of health care dollars go to hospital care (31 percent) and physician/clinical services (21 percent). Prescription drugs account for about 10 percent of each dollar.
There are many reasons for the increased cost of health care. Many important advances have been made in health care technology and medicines. These developments don't come cheap, so the costs must be paid by the consumer. People tend to be more aware of their treatment options and often demand access to the latest (but more expensive) testing and treatments. As a whole, our population is getting older, so more people will use the health care system to treat age-related and chronic medical conditions. Administrative costs (like billing and marketing) are also increasing.
Consumer Health and the Recession According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for January 2011 was 9 percent. For many, job loss not only means no income, but also a loss of health insurance coverage. Even many of those who are employed can't afford the monthly premiums for health insurance. Researchers report about 58.7 million people in the U.S. had no health insurance for at least part of 2008.
People who don't have insurance must pay for health care out-of-pocket. With skyrocketing health care costs, it may be impossible to afford care. Some people may find themselves struggling with a decision to put food on the table or buy their prescriptions. The financial difficulties are especially hard on the elderly, who tend to have more health problems and limited income.
Coping with the Costs To cope with the rising cost of health care, some patients are delaying or cutting out doctor visits, preventive care (like screenings and vaccines) and cutting back or skipping their medications. However, Robert Parker, M.D., Geriatrician with UT Health Science Center in San Antonio, TX says these measures can have serious consequences down the road, especially for those with chronic medical problems. Failure to keep their health in check could lead to complications that spiral out of control, ultimately requiring more complex (and more expensive) treatment.
Patients who are struggling with the ability to pay for health care and medications should be up front about their financial concerns with their health care provider. Often doctors can switch a patient to a generic (rather than brand) medication. Many pharmacies now offer a 30-day supply of generic drugs for $4.00. Some pharmaceutical companies also offer patient assistance plans for those who are unable to afford their medications. In some cases, doctors can switch the patient to an older medication that is less costly, yet still effective.
It's also important to review your medications periodically with your physician, especially if you receive care from more than one provider. It's possible that you may be able to reduce the dosage of a drug or discontinue a medication (however, DO NOT stop taking a medication without consulting a physician). Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may also reduce the risk for some types of acute illnesses and many chronic health problems (like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes).
AUDIENCE INQUIRY For information about health care costs: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation