Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
June 22, 2026
95% of U.S. Employees Want Better Health, But Costs Hinder Them
TLDR
- Employers can gain a competitive edge by addressing healthcare affordability, as 95% of employees are motivated to improve health.
- The Harris Poll surveyed 2,001 employees; 50% report healthcare costs hinder daily expenses, and 47% cut retirement savings.
- No one should choose between groceries and medical care; the American Heart Association advocates for affordable healthcare for all.
- 93% of employees want leaders to model work-life balance, yet 36% struggle to manage it alongside health goals.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because it highlights a critical issue affecting millions of U.S. employees: the trade-off between healthcare costs and basic necessities or retirement savings. The findings urge employers and policymakers to take action, as healthcare affordability is a crisis that impacts workforce productivity, financial security, and overall well-being. Readers should care because it reflects systemic challenges that may affect their own health and financial future.
Summary
A recent survey by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Heart Association reveals that while 95% of U.S. employees are actively trying to improve their health, rising healthcare costs pose significant barriers. Half of respondents report that healthcare expenses have made it difficult to afford essentials like food, childcare, and rent, while 47% have reduced or stopped retirement contributions to cover medical costs. Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasizes that no one should have to choose between groceries and medical care, calling on employers to prioritize affordable, accessible healthcare. The survey, conducted among 2,001 employees enrolled in employer-sponsored health plans, highlights that 92% believe health and well-being should be supported in daily work, not just through policies.
Large employers are also feeling the pinch, with a 2026 Business Group on Health survey projecting a median 9% increase in healthcare costs. In response, business leaders are focusing on comprehensive support and systems-level changes. A recent Presidential Advisory from the American Heart Association warns of a healthcare affordability crisis, outlining five core principles for a sustainable system: access without financial hardship, minimal cost-sharing for preventive care, shared accountability, strategic investments, and strengthening public health infrastructure. The advisory underscores the need for collective action from policymakers and stakeholders.
Beyond costs, employees face barriers like work-life balance (36%), lack of time (30%), and caregiving duties (23%). The American Heart Association, a trusted source for public health information, urges companies to lead by example, as 93% of employees want leaders to model work-life balance. The organization, supported by over 35 million volunteers globally, continues to advocate for equitable health and groundbreaking research. For more details, view the original release on NEWMEDIAWIRE.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content disributed by NewMediaWire. Read the original source here, 95% of U.S. Employees Want Better Health, But Costs Hinder Them
