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Poll: Cost Makes Nearly 1 in 10 Leery of Seeking COVID Care

Associated Press

   WASHINGTON - As states gear up to reopen, a poll finds a potential
   obstacle to controlling the coronavirus: nearly 1 in 10 adults say cost
   would keep them from seeking help if they thought they were infected.

   [1]The Gallup-West Health Healthcare Costs Survey out Tuesday finds
   that 9% of those age 18 and over would avoid seeking treatment because
   of concerns about the cost of care, even if they thought they were
   infected with the coronavirus.

   A significantly higher number, 14%, would avoid seeking treatment
   because of pocketbook worries if they had fever and a dry cough, two
   widely publicized symptoms of COVID-19.

   Although Congress and President Donald Trump have made coronavirus
   testing free to patients, and some insurers are waiving copays and
   deductibles for treatment within their networks, the survey suggests
   such messages may not be getting to the public.

   The survey delivers "important and distressing information," said John
   Auerbach, head of the nonpartisan Trust for America's Health. "I hope
   that policy makers take note."

   With so many reluctant to seek care, "it could pose problems in testing
   people," Auerbach added. "Without widespread testing, it will be
   problematic to lift the restrictions." Auerbach's group works with
   government at all levels to strengthen public health, and was not
   involved with the poll.

References

   1. https://news.gallup.com/poll/309224/avoid-care-likely-covid-due-cost.aspx

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