For Many, Chronic Illness Sets Up Difficult Financial Choices
Reuters: Many Chronically Ill Americans Unable To Afford Food, MedicineOne in three Americans with a chronic disease such as diabetes, arthritis or high blood pressure has difficulty paying for food, medications or both, according to a new study. People who had trouble affording food were four times more likely to skip some of their medications due to cost than those who got plenty to eat, researchers found. ... The findings are based on data collected by the 2011 National Health Interview Survey, a questionnaire that offers a snapshot of the U.S. population as a whole. Nearly 10,000 people age 20 and up filled out the survey and reported having one or more chronic illnesses like cancer, asthma, emphysema or a psychiatric illness (Bond, 1/30). This is part of the Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.