New poll: Half of AAPI Texans say they’re skipping health care because of cost 

The poll found that half of AAPI Texans (51%) say they’ve skipped or postponed health care in the past year because they couldn’t afford it — whether it was a doctor’s visit, filling a prescription, or getting a recommended test. 

“This tells us that the rising cost of care isn’t just a financial issue — it’s a health issue,” said Dr. Ann Barnes, EHF’s president and CEO. “When people delay care, health problems get worse. And that’s especially true when we’re talking about preventive care or chronic conditions.” 

• See the complete Texas AAPI poll results

This is the second year EHF has focused part of its annual Texas Health Tracking Survey specifically on AAPI residents. Understanding the health experiences of Asian American and Pacific Islander Texans is crucial because this rapidly growing and diverse population now comprises nearly 2 million residents—about 6% of the state’s total population.  

The poll results highlight how both health care costs and everyday challenges outside the doctor’s office are impacting the health of this growing population. 

What else did the poll find? 

AAPI Texans don’t think the state is doing enough to help Texans get the care they need.

• 69% say Texas isn’t doing enough to ensure low-income adults can get needed care
• 64% say the state is falling short for pregnant women
• 51% say Texas isn’t doing enough to help immigrants get the care they need 

Health goes beyond clinics and hospitals.

• 77% of AAPI Texans say their community doesn’t have enough affordable housing 
• 70% say there’s not enough public transportation 
• 65% say there aren’t enough well-paying jobs 
• 43% say their community lacks good quality schools
• 42% say there aren’t enough places for people to get care during pregnancy 

Food insecurity is real.

• 22% of AAPI Texans experienced some form of food insecurity in the past year
• 81% say food deserts are a problem in Texas, including 39% who call it a major problem 

Big support for Medicaid.

• 72% of AAPI Texans have a favorable opinion of Medicaid, including 18% who say they view it very favorably 

The poll also found that 90% of AAPI Texans believe it’s important for Medicaid to address non-medical factors that impact health — things like housing, transportation, and access to healthy food.