Medical debt in collections appearing on credit reports has decreased significantly over the past decade, according to new research by the Urban Institute. In 2013, 19.5% of Americans had medical debt in collections, while in 2023, that number dropped to just 5%. Efforts by major credit bureaus in 2022 and 2023 played a vital role in this reduction by removing paid medical debts from credit reports and delaying the reporting of unpaid debts. Despite this positive trend, the median medical debt in collections has actually increased over time, reaching $1,493 in 2023, up from $842 in 2013.
The Urban Institute’s research highlighted significant disparities across states in terms of medical debt reduction. States in the South, such as West Virginia, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Mississippi, witnessed the largest reductions in residents with medical debt in collections. Some states, like Colorado, even managed to eliminate medical debt in collections altogether by implementing specific regulations. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has proposed banning medical bills from credit reports to further relieve consumers from this burden.
Recent studies have shown that individuals carrying medical debt are more financially vulnerable compared to those without such debts. Adults with medical debt are more likely to carry credit card balances, lack a rainy-day fund, and struggle financially. They are also more prone to overdrawing checking accounts, being contacted by debt collection agencies, and resorting to alternative financial services such as pawn shops or payday loans. Medical debt often leads individuals into a cycle of financial struggle and debt accumulation.
Medical debt has been identified as a leading cause of bankruptcy, especially when coupled with an inability to work. Individuals facing high medical debts and financial constraints may find themselves overwhelmed and resort to extreme measures such as bankruptcy. Certain states and entities have taken steps to alleviate the burden of medical debt on individuals by canceling billions of dollars in unpaid balances through legislative actions such as the American Rescue Plan Act.
Public Opinion and Solutions
The forgiveness of medical debt has gained public support, with over half of adults expressing the importance of relieving individuals from this financial burden. To help those struggling with medical debt, experts recommend negotiating with healthcare providers for lower costs and exploring options for reducing prescription expenses. Shopping around for the best prices on medications can also provide some relief to individuals facing high medical costs.
While efforts to reduce medical debt in credit reports are commendable, more needs to be done to address the underlying issue of affordability in healthcare. Individuals burdened with medical debt are at a higher risk of financial instability and may require additional support to break free from the cycle of debt accumulation. By implementing proactive measures and seeking financial relief options, consumers can work towards managing and reducing their medical debt effectively.