For the first time in 20 years, a majority of Americans feel that the health care system in the country does not meet their expectations, according to a new Gallup poll.
The annual health and healthcare survey shows that 52% of respondents rated U.S. healthcare as below satisfactory. Thirty-one percent say it is "only fair," and 21% rate it as "poor." This compares with 48% who rated it as "excellent" or "good."
This year's figures reflect a drop well below the peak of those satisfied with the health care system (62%), recorded on two occasions in the early 2010s.
Partisan division
The downward trend reflected in the poll may be a result of the partisan divide among respondents, Gallup said. Republican satisfaction levels have fallen year over year, while Democratic views have remained stable over time:
- In 2022, 56% of Republicans rated the quality of health care as excellent or good. Two years ago in 2020, this result was 69%. In 2019, 75% were satisfied with the healthcare system.
- Positive ratings for Democrats have been stable at a lower level (currently 44%).
