Massachusetts Residents Report High Health Insurance Satisfaction Despite Cost Concerns
BOSTON, MA – A new poll reveals a surprising disconnect in massachusetts: residents largely express satisfaction with thier health insurance even as a significant number report delaying or forgoing medical care due to cost. The findings, published by CommonWealth Beacon, highlight the complex relationship between perceived quality of care and financial accessibility in a state consistently ranked among the nation’s leaders in healthcare.
Despite Massachusetts’s reputation for healthcare excellence, nearly one-third of residents (33%) reported skipping or delaying medical care in the past year because of the expense.close to that number – 28% – had a health insurance claim denied during the same period.Yet, majorities remain at least somewhat satisfied with their health insurance plans. This apparent paradox suggests residents may have adjusted expectations or believe the state’s healthcare system, despite its challenges, remains superior to others.
The poll indicates access to specialists remains a concern. Thirty-two percent of residents were able to secure an appointment within two weeks, while 18% waited three to four weeks. A substantial portion faced longer delays: 15% reported waiting one to two months,and 16% waited more than two months for a specialist appointment.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell has taken steps to address affordability, stating, “People simply can’t afford it,” and outlining actions taken to ensure continued vaccine access and insurance coverage. The state has also implemented measures to limit healthcare deductibles and co-pays, including a $25 cap on prescription drug costs.
“Massachusetts residents seem to have set a pretty low bar when it comes to rating their health insurance and health care experiences,” observed polling group representative, Parr. He suggests the state’s strong healthcare reputation may contribute to this relatively high level of satisfaction, with residents potentially believing current experiences represent the best possible service.
