How American Churches Are Erasing Millions in Medical Debt—and Why It Matters
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Debt has been a problem for centuries, but did you know that the medical debt crisis in the U.S. has recently reached a breaking point?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this crisis impacts over 100 million Americans. Not only are high costs at stake, but these individuals have inadequate insurance, pop-up bills, and low coverage, often leading to financial ruin, delayed care, or even bankruptcy. KFF further reports that 1 in 6 Americans claims “debt,” just under half say it’s difficult to afford proper health care, and 36% say they’ve skipped or postponed getting health care they needed because of costs. Add the mess of prescription drugs into the mix, and one in five adults (21%) say they’ve not filled a prescription because of the cost.
In 2022, 4 in 10 reported debt due to mental or dental bills, but this number is only rising. And even those who are covered by health insurance aren’t immune to the burdens of these costs. But there is hope. Local churches aren’t just stepping up to proclaim goodwill towards men; they’re seeking to help individuals walk debt-free.
The Christian Daily reports that Spirit and Truth Church in Atlanta, Georgia, has cleared over $1.5 million in medical debt for those struggling in the community. Rev. Mark Moore Jr. explains that his Church is just one of several that have raised funds to help pay off medical debt over the years. As an inspiration to others, Moore notes, “Medical debt should never determine a family’s future or rob individuals of dignity and peace. This Christmas, Spirit and Truth Church chose to respond with faith in action — lifting a burden that no one should have to carry alone.”
Today, other churches have joined this growing movement of biblical compassion and stewardship. Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Omaha, Nebraska, Trinity Moravian Church in North Carolina, and Saint Andrew’s Parish in Saratoga, California, are just a few examples, each raising thousands to millions spanning numerous counties.
Millions of Americans are burdened by medical debt. This is a fact that causes a disproportionate impact on low-income families. After all, medical debt is a leading cause of financial stress in most homes. But the Church can play a role.