Health Care Costs Top Concern for Americans, Poll Finds

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A new Gallup poll reveals that health care access and affordability is the top domestic concern for 61% of Americans, surpassing the economy, inflation, and federal spending as the primary worry. The shift comes after the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, leading to higher premiums and a drop in enrollment.

Why it matters

The Gallup findings on health care costs as a major concern mirror similar survey results, highlighting how the loss of pandemic-era health insurance subsidies has impacted household finances and access to care. This issue has risen to the forefront of Americans' minds, potentially shaping policy debates and voting priorities.

The details

The Gallup poll found that 61% of Americans say they worry a 'great deal' about the access and affordability of health care, making it the top domestic policy issue out of 16 surveyed. This marks a shift from 2020, when the economy was the primary concern. The survey also found that 51% cite the economy as their top worry, followed by inflation at 50% and the federal budget deficit at 50%. Concern over inflation has dropped to its lowest level since Gallup began tracking it in 2022.

• The Gallup poll was conducted in March 2026.
• The enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies expired at the start of 2026, leading to higher premiums and a drop in enrollment.