EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publishRhode Islanders are sending a blunt message: the healthcare system is not just expensive, it's forcing people to delay care, skip tests, and rethink whether treatment is even worth it. University of Rhode Island sociologist Julie Keller unpacks the new survey data exposing how deep the affordability crisis really goes - and why the numbers are more alarming than the anecdotes.The findings go beyond general frustration. 29% of respondents say they delayed medical care in the last year because of cost, and among those postponing recommended care, cost is the biggest reason. Keller explains why the wording of these questions matters, how the survey captures the difference between general concern and real-world barriers, and why that gap is so consequential for health outcomes and medical debt.We also break down the broader public sentiment shaping Rhode Island right now:
72% worry about healthcare costs
72% also worry about housing costs
93% trust their own doctor
Trust drops sharply for institutions like the CDC, FDA, Rhode Island state officials, RFK Jr., and Trump
49% say they use AI for health information, raising new questions about how people search for care and advice
Keller also shares what Rhode Islanders say they would support to fix the system, including a URI medical school, loan forgiveness for doctors who stay in the state, and higher Medicaid reimbursements. If you're trying to understand why healthcare keeps rising to the top of Rhode Island's political agenda, or what kinds of solutions actually have public support, this episode gives you the clearest picture yet.Essential listening if you care about healthcare costs, access to care, policy reform, or the real state of public opinion in Rhode Island right now.
Podden och tillhörande omslagsbild på den här sidan tillhör
Bill Bartholomew. Innehållet i podden är skapat av Bill Bartholomew och inte av,
eller tillsammans med, Poddtoppen.
