Schneider Institutes for Health Policy
Research Publication Summary
| Citation: | Pryor C, Gurewich D (2004). Getting Care but Paying the Price: How Medical Debt Leaves Many in Massachusetts Facing Tough Choices. Waltham, MA: The Access Project and The Schneider Institute for Health Policy, Heller School, Brandeis University for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation of Massachusetts; February. |
| Abstract Through a survey of health center users in Massachusetts, this study explores the degree to which health center patients are burdened with medical bills they cannot afford to pay. The survey results suggest that medical debt is a serious problem even for clients of safety-net facilities, both uninsured and insured, and that the debt can affect people’s access to health care and their economic well being. The findings show that, in spite of the state’s traditional strong safety-net, many Massachusetts residents incur significant debt as a result of obtaining medical services. Policy implications are discussed. | |
| More Information: | http:/ |
| Research Area: | Acute and Chronic Health Care |
| Core Competencies: | Financing, High Risk & Costly Populations |
