One in four American Gen Z are skipping healthcare because they can’t afford it. A new PYMNTS report reveals 80% of Gen Z say healthcare costs (premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket payments) put at least moderate strain on their budgets—nearly double the rate of Boomers who say so. And it’s changing their behaviors: 25% say they delayed a doctor’s visit in the past three months due to cost and 22% skipped a recommended test or treatment entirely. It’s all due to coverage; Gen Z report 70% of their most recent appointments were partially covered by insurance, but that’s compared to 86% of older adults. Meanwhile, 35% of Gen Z paid out of pocket for their last visit, versus only 14% of Boomers. It’s a big gap, and one that makes preventive care feel like a luxury rather than a baseline. (PYMNTS)
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