Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

January 22, 2021

Reports of Forgone Medical Care Among US Adults During the Initial Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic

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Among 1,055 Americans adults who reported needing medical care between March and July of 2020, 544 (52%) reported forgoing care for any reason, 307 (29%) reported forgoing care due to fear of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and 75 (7%) reported forgoing care due to financial concerns associated with the pandemic. In addition, 108 (8%) survey participants reported missing at least one dose of a prescription medication typically acquired at a retail pharmacy, and 38 of 74 respondents (51%) with a severe mental or physical health issue that emerged after the start of the pandemic reported forgoing care.

Hispanic respondents, respondents between the ages of 18 to 49, respondents in households with annual incomes below $35,000, unemployed respondents, and respondents receiving Medicaid more often reported forgoing some form of care.

Anderson et al. (Jan 21, 2021). Reports of Forgone Medical Care Among US Adults During the Initial Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA Network Open. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.34882