What ACA enrollees are cutting back on to afford health care, according to a new poll - AP News

AP News
March 19, 2026
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3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Over half of ACA enrollees are cutting food and household spending to afford health insurance premiums.

How This Affects You

If you have ACA health insurance, you may need to reduce spending on groceries, clothing, and basic household items to cover rising premiums and costs.

AI Summary

A new poll shows that Affordable Care Act enrollees are making trade-offs in other spending categories to pay for their health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. The survey captures financial pressures facing millions of Americans who rely on ACA coverage, particularly as premiums and deductibles have shifted household budgets. Understanding what enrollees are sacrificing—whether food, utilities, transportation, or other necessities—reveals the real-world strain of affording health care even with subsidized insurance. This data comes as policymakers continue debating the sustainability and adequacy of ACA benefits and cost-sharing structures. The findings underscore how health care affordability remains a primary financial stressor for this population segment.

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