CVS Health poll: Voters satisfied with healthcare providers, but cost and access are challenges

WOONSOCKET, R.I. -- As many as 82% of voters say they are somewhat or highly satisfied with the care they receive from health care providers, and nearly three quarters of respondents report that they are satisfied with their health care coverage, CVS Health reported Wednesday, citing a public opinion poll conducted by the pharmacy leader in November 2016 with more than 1,800 registered voters.



"Despite this generally positive sentiment, affordability is an obstacle for many voters," CVS Health noted in a blog published Wednesday. "In fact, 26% of respondents admitted they put off needed medical care in the past month because of high costs. This finding was consistent with our September poll, highlighting the pervasive impact of cost on health care decision-making. Also consistent with our September poll, one in five voters shared that they put off filling a prescription in the last month because of the cost."



Voters want the incoming Congress and administration to tackle several important health care issues. Specifically, nine out of 10 poll respondents identified these issues as important for the next president and Congress to address:

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  Prescription drug prices;


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  Health insurance deductibles and premiums;


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  Access to health care providers; and


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  Preparedness for public health emergencies.

When asked to select the most important health care issue facing the country and future leaders, 45% chose health insurance deductibles and premiums, followed by access to health care providers and prescription drug costs, which were each identified by approximately one in six voters as the No. 1 priority.



"Our poll findings highlight the need for the health care industry and our elected leaders to continue to seek out ways to adapt to the changing environment, particularly as the population ages and the prevalence of chronic disease increases," CVS Health stated. "Ensuring patients have access to quality care at the lowest-possible cost will continue to be a critical aim of the entire health care system."