Why Does Health Care Cost So Much?

Health care costs in the United States are skyrocketing. People are feeling the pinch as they brace for another round of premium hikes. Those who buy insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace without financial help can expect to pay about 18% more in 2026. In some cases, costs could double. The U. S. leads the world in expensive health care. Americans spend more per person on health care than any other country. This high cost can lead to fewer doctor visits and lower life expectancy. Health care spending has grown a lot over the years. Since 1970, the amount spent on medical goods and services per person has increased by more than four times. Health care in the U. S. is not uniform. Different states have different rules and guidelines. The quality of health care in a state depends on three main things: how affordable it is, how easy it is to get, and the results it produces.