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.

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. 

Health care costs continue to be a big concern for consumers and transparency about out-of-pocket costs prior to receiving treatment has been top-of-mind for many. However, the lack of visibility into pricing for health care services has created post-treatment sticker shock. This has contributed to high rates of medical debt in the U.S. to the tune of $140 billion. The legislature has taken steps to create transparency and tools to help patients make educated decisions; however, they're coming slowly. The No Surprises Act will mitigate certain unexpected out-of-network charges — 2 in 3 Americans worry about unexpected medical bills — and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' delayed transparency bill will have more of an impact in 2023 and beyond as providers get their ducks in a row to offer upfront pricing for shoppable health services.