Rising Healthcare Costs & Insurance Fatigue: Why Direct Primary Care Is More Relevant Than Ever
Dr. Akash Shah, MD
Founder, StrongHealth DPC
Americans face increasing insurance pressure—and many are seeking affordable, predictable care. Direct Primary Care (DPC) addresses these challenges with simplicity and transparency.
Premium Pressure: What Consumers Face
- Average employer family premium: $26,993 for 2025—a 6% jump over last year.
- Worker's annual share (family plan): $6,850, plus an average deductible of $1,886 (single coverage).
- Uninsured Americans: 27.1 million (8% of the population).
ACA Marketplace & Subsidy Uncertainty
- 2025 ACA premium after subsidies: $888/year.
- Potential 2026 cost (if subsidies expire): $1,904/year—a projected 114% increase.
- If subsidies lapse: 4–8 million may lose coverage.
What Drives Insurance Fatigue?
- Main reason uninsured: 63–64% cite unaffordable coverage.
- Frustration with copays, unpredictable bills, claim denials, and network limits.
- Many delay or skip care, even if technically "insured."
Key Numbers at a Glance
| 2025 Metric | Value | 2026 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Employer family premium | $26,993 | Higher (trend +6%) |
| Employee share (family plan) | $6,850 | — |
| Deductible (single coverage) | $1,886 | — |
| ACA premium (subsidized) | $888 | $1,904 |
| Uninsured Americans | 27.1M (8%) | +4–8M (projection) |
| % cite unaffordable cost | 63–64% | |
Why DPC? The Attractive Alternative
- Transparent flat fee covering most primary care needs
- Unlimited visits with direct physician access
- No insurance headaches, copays, or hidden bills
- Predictable, stable costs regardless of marketplace uncertainty
- Ideal for those facing premium spikes or losing subsidies
DPC is healthcare built for people—not just paperwork or insurance companies.
Ready to Take Control of Your Healthcare?
At StrongHealth DPC, you get unlimited primary care for just $75/month—no copays, no deductibles, no billing headaches. Just straightforward, accessible care when you need it.
Ready to take control of your healthcare?
Get unlimited primary care for $75/month — simple, predictable, and accessible.
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