Patients struggle to afford prescriptions, survey finds

ARLINGTON, Va. — A new national survey of 1,007 U.S. adults who interacted with the health care system in the past year—conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Surescripts—reveals that more than half of patients face difficulties when filling prescriptions and are unsure whom to trust for information about medications or costs. As a result, one in four patients has abandoned a prescription because it was too expensive.

Despite these challenges, 77% of patients say they would likely use digital tools to compare prescription prices—especially when recommended by their provider. This underscores the essential role healthcare professionals play in helping patients access timely, affordable care.

Report: Patients want a more informed and empowering healthcare experience

“With more patients than ever relying on expensive medications to treat chronic conditions, the need for patients to have accurate prescription cost information at the point of prescribing has never been greater,” said Frank Harvey, president and CEO for Surescripts. “The survey reinforces the essential role healthcare providers play in empowering patients with digital tools that support them to make confident and timely decisions about their care, elevating the overall care experience.”

Key Findings

• 56% of patients report challenges filling prescriptions
• 48% are unsure who to trust for accurate prescription medication and pricing information
• Only 20% feel empowered to manage their medications
• 77% are likely to use digital prescription price comparison tools
• 84% see added value in tools being recommended or managed by their provider

Patients Want Prescription Cost Transparency and Digital Support

Nearly half of patients (48%) say they don’t know where to turn for reliable prescription cost information. While uncertainty persists, most patients trust their healthcare providers for guidance and want tools that make cost information clear and actionable.

• 36% say clearer cost information would make managing medications easier
• 26% discuss prescription costs with their provider at half or more of their visits
• Just over half (54%) feel their needs are fully met in those conversations

Access Barriers Continue to Disrupt Treatment Adherence

More than half (56%) of patients report delays and disruptions when filling prescriptions. Among those who experienced delays, those included:

• 37% due to prescriptions taking a long time to fill
• 31% due to back-and-forth between their health plan, provider or pharmacy
• 26% due to prior authorization delays or denials

Among those experiencing prior authorization delays, nearly half (48%) report going without medication for some time.

Technology Can Close Care Gaps

Surescripts recently launched Script Corner, a mobile-friendly, web application that empowers patients with prescription price transparency. Script Corner is the only solution that will give patients instant visibility into the cost of their prescription at their chosen pharmacy, including their insurance copay price, GoodRx discounted cash price, as well as other available savings programs, allowing them to choose the most affordable path and helping them avoid costly surprises when they pick up their prescription.