Health care in the United States has become increasingly unaffordable, challenging patients, providers, and pharmacies alike. It's an unfortunate reality of our times. One in 5 adults report they can't afford quality care. Uncompensated care hovers around $40B annually. And the COVID-19 pandemic continues to strain the resources of our health care system. What lies ahead? 

Against a backdrop of growing financial burden, these three trends tell the story of where health care affordability is heading in 2022 and beyond.

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1. Expect more patients to be in financial distress and needing financial assistance.

Out-of-pocket expenses and premiums are expected to rise in 2022. Coupled with rising living expenses, it's becoming even more challenging for people with chronic conditions needing high-cost specialty treatments to afford care. 

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