Cost Concerns and Coverage Changes: A Follow-Up Survey of ACA Marketplace Enrollees

A new KFF poll highlights growing affordability challenges among Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace enrollees, with 55% reporting they are cutting back on food and other basic needs to manage rising health care costs. Premium increases—averaging more than 20% in 2026 following the expiration of enhanced subsidies—are driving financial strain, with many also taking on additional work.

Beyond economic impacts, the findings reveal heightened emotional stress, with most enrollees reporting worry, confusion or frustration, underscoring the broader public health implications of cost-related access barriers. Read more from The Hill here.