What ACA enrollees are cutting back on to afford health care, according to a new poll

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by By ALI SWENSONMarch 19, 2026 at 04:23 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

A recent KFF poll reveals that many Americans enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace coverage are struggling with rising healthcare costs in 2025. The expiration of enhanced tax credits at the end of 2024, which previously offset premiums, is a primary driver of these increased costs. Consequently, over half of ACA enrollees surveyed report cutting back on essential expenses like food and household needs to afford healthcare. The survey, conducted in February and March, highlights the impact of Congress' failure to extend COVID-era subsidies, leaving approximately 23 million enrollees facing higher premiums or difficult choices regarding their coverage. The situation forces some, like a Florida woman with diabetes, to ration medication to manage expenses.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Republicans 40% House of Representatives 40% Orlando, Florida 50% Democrats 50% Congress ×260% KFF 70% Priscilla Brown ×580% Affordable Care Act ×490%

Keywords

affordable care act 100% aca enrollees 90% health care costs 90% health insurance premiums 80% prescription drugs 70% tax credits 60% household needs 50% type 2 diabetes 40%