38% of Millennials Pay Healthcare Costs Out of Pocket as Financial Strain Delays Care for Young People

Healthcare costs continue to erode the financial resilience of younger Americans. A PYMNTS Intelligence report found that inadequate insurance coverage and high deductibles force millennials to choose between treatment and everyday expenses even when they need care. Delaying treatment may also allow conditions to worsen, further increasing subsequent costs.

The latest PYMNTS Intelligence survey found that 38% of millennials have paid healthcare costs out of pocket. Among Gen Z, one-quarter, or about 25%, have skipped a doctor's visit or postponed treatment because of financial pressure. The report did not disclose the average out-of-pocket amount or a specific publication date, but the data underscore that healthcare costs are directly affecting when young people seek treatment and how they manage their finances.