Majority of Americans Advocate for Medical Debt Relief: New Poll Reveals

A recent poll conducted by the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that many Americans support government-provided medical debt relief. The survey shows that approximately half of Americans believe it is extremely or very important for the U.S. government to address unpaid medical debt, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend has prompted cities and states such as Connecticut, New York City, New Orleans, and Chicago to implement their own medical debt forgiveness programs. Additionally, the Biden administration has proposed a rule to eliminate consumer medical debt from most credit reports.

Support for medical debt relief is particularly high in instances of healthcare fraud, with about two-thirds of adults backing forgiveness when patients have been wrongfully billed. Other situations garnering significant support include cases where individuals have made on-time payments toward existing loans for 20 years, possess large medical debts relative to their income, or are facing financial hardship.

The poll indicates that 6 in 10 individuals with medical debt favor relief if the debt is substantial compared to their income, while about half of those without medical debt share this view. Interestingly, Americans prioritize medical debt relief over student loan forgiveness, with roughly 40% of adults deeming it extremely or very important for the government to address student debt.

Lesley Turner, an associate professor of public policy at the University of Chicago and a key contributor to the poll, noted the differing opinions on who deserves debt relief. Turner highlighted the less voluntary nature of emergency medical situations compared to the decision to pursue higher education, although both are crucial for economic mobility and stability.

The survey reveals bipartisan support for clearing medical debt in cases of fraud, with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents showing similar levels of agreement. However, Democrats are more inclined than Republicans to support relief for those experiencing financial hardship or with significant medical debt relative to their income.

Overall, the poll shows that while opinions on medical debt forgiveness vary, there is significant support across the political spectrum for addressing this critical issue.

Why This Matters: Medical debt is a pressing issue affecting millions of Americans, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding public opinion on debt relief can inform policy decisions and help address the financial burdens many face due to medical expenses.

Key Takeaways

• Half of Americans find government-provided medical debt relief extremely or very important.
• Two-thirds support debt forgiveness in cases of healthcare fraud.
• Medical debt relief is prioritized over student loan forgiveness.
• Bipartisan support exists for clearing medical debt due to fraud.
• Personal experiences with medical debt shape individuals' views on debt forgiveness.