Most Oklahomans say they are struggling to afford health care and want lawmakers to be transparent about how policy changes could affect costs, according to a new statewide survey.
The survey, commissioned by Altarum’s Healthcare Value Hub, found 72 percent of respondents experienced at least one health care affordability burden in the past year. Sixty-seven percent said the system is unaffordable, and 92 percent believe costs are still rising. Three-quarters said they worry they will not be able to afford care in the future.
“When the vast majority of Oklahomans say the system is unaffordable and are worried about the future, we can’t afford to wait,” said Julie McKone, executive director of Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare. “These aren’t just statistics; they’re our neighbors and families struggling to access the care they need.”
Sixty-eight percent reported they or a family member skipped or delayed care because of cost. Nearly a quarter received an unexpected medical bill in the past year, and 39 percent said they drained savings, postponed other expenses or took on credit card debt due to medical bills.
On policy, 90 percent said the government should limit high drug prices, and 91 percent support broader efforts to reduce health care costs. At the same time, only 43 percent support expanded coverage if it means higher premiums, and 31 percent favor helping local pharmacies if it increases costs for everyone.
More than 80 percent said lawmakers should disclose how proposed health care mandates would affect consumer costs before passing legislation. Oklahoma Families for Affordable Healthcare pointed to that finding in backing House Bill 1161, which would require cost estimates for new health care mandates before they take effect.
Support was strongest for prohibiting hospital facility fees at affiliated outpatient clinics not located inside a hospital, with 92 percent in favor.
The survey was conducted Aug. 13 through Sept. 12, 2025, and included 1,383 Oklahoma adults.
