Who Is Delaying Healthcare?

As the recession persists and Congress deliberates on legislation for healthcare reform, consumers continue to make tough choices regarding treatment. Low-income and uninsured consumers are more likely to delay care that is recommended by their doctors while reporting health problems in both the physical and behavioral health spheres. During the past year, consumers who said they delayed care were more likely to visit emergency rooms and retail health clinics than those who did not put off treatment. As consumers turn to these alternative resources, retail health clinics will forge greater relationships with physicians and hospitals to ensure continuity in patient care. Meanwhile, hospitals will create and expand community health clinics to divert uninsured and indigent patients from costly substitutes like the emergency room.