Fifteen percent of Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance said they deferred medical care between March and September 2020, according to the PwC survey. The report predicts more Americans will seek routine care and elective surgeries in 2022, which could drive up medical costs.
The report estimates that other pandemic trends, such as patients living with long COVID-19 and the exacerbated opioid and mental health crises, will increase costs. It also predicted some pandemic-era habits, such as not exercising, poor nutrition and substance use, could raise costs as well.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.