A recent survey conducted 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 and well-being, financial constraints, time limitations, and workplace structures pose significant barriers. The findings highlight that healthcare affordability is a critical issue, with 50% of respondents stating that healthcare costs have made it difficult to pay for day-to-day expenses such as food, childcare, and rent. Additionally, 47% reported reducing or stopping retirement contributions to afford healthcare costs and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The survey, which included 2,001 employees enrolled in employer-sponsored health plans, underscores the tension between health aspirations and financial realities. Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, emphasized that no one should have to choose between basic necessities and medical care. The association is committed to addressing healthcare affordability as part of its mission to build a world of longer, healthier lives, and views employers as crucial allies in this effort.
According to a 2026 Business Group on Health survey, large employers anticipate a median 9% increase in healthcare costs this year before cost-reduction measures. In response, business leaders are focusing on lowering costs and strengthening comprehensive support for workforce well-being. A recent Presidential Advisory from the American Heart Association warns that healthcare affordability in the U.S. has reached crisis levels, outlining five core principles to guide policymakers and stakeholders toward a more affordable and sustainable healthcare system.
Beyond costs, the survey identified other barriers to health management: 36% cited work-life balance, 30% lack of time, and 23% parenting or caregiving responsibilities. The vast majority of employees (92%) agree that health and well-being should be supported in how they work day-to-day, not just through policies or programs. Similarly, 93% want company leaders to set a good example regarding work-life balance.
The survey was conducted February 26 – March 12, 2026, with data weighted to be representative of the U.S. employee population. The sample is accurate to within ± 2.8 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. More than 8 in 10 U.S. adults express confidence in the American Heart Association to provide trustworthy public health information, according to a poll by the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg Public Policy Center.
The American Heart Association continues to fund groundbreaking research and advocate for public health. For more information, visit heart.org or stroke.org.
