NEW YORK, NY – November 1, 2023) – MetroPlusHealth, New York City’s high-quality and affordable health plan, released the findings of its third annual MetroPlusHealth Healthy People Study today, which measures national and NYC consumers’ attitudes towards their health care and what they care about most as it relates to cost, quality of care, and their health insurance plans.
Findings from the survey underscore the escalating concern among New Yorkers regarding health care costs, with 89% finding it to be too expensive, a sentiment that has been on a three-year rise and tracks closely with national survey respondents. Key insights from the MetroPlusHealth Healthy People Study include:
· 46% of New Yorkers avoid visiting the doctor due to cost uncertainties, also a three year high, up from 43% in 2022 and 40% in 2021.
· Nearly 6 out of 10 New Yorkers (58%) worry they’ll go into debt because of health care expenses, a stat that is up from 54% in 2022 and 52% in 2021, respectively.
· 85% of New Yorkers believe health insurance should cover mental health at $0.
“New York is recovering, but growth could be hindered by mounting concerns over escalating health care costs,” said Mitchell Katz, MD, President, and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals. “That is why it is so critical to have a health care system that provides exceptional quality care at an affordable rate.”
Talya Schwartz, MD, President, & CEO of MetroPlusHealth, added, “Our Gold Plan embodies our commitment to providing top-tier health care to New York City employees, ensuring it is not only high-quality but also easily accessible. By eliminating financial barriers like copays and premiums, we empower City employees to prioritize their health and well-being and that of their families.”
