KFF Survey Finds Health Care Costs Drive Care Delays and Medication Rationing Among Women

KFF's 2026 Women's Health Survey found that health care costs remain a major barrier for women ages 18–64, resulting in delayed care, medication rationing, and reductions in spending on basic necessities. The nationally representative survey, which included both women and men, documented the financial burden health care expenses place on women specifically. While the survey findings address broader health system affordability challenges, Medicaid managed care organizations may see implications for their predominantly female enrollee populations, particularly regarding access barriers and cost-related care avoidance patterns.

Managed Care · Maternal