Most Americans Satisfied with Health Insurance Despite Coverage Delays

A recent national survey reveals that 82% of American adults express overall satisfaction with their health insurance coverage, with the highest satisfaction rates observed among older adults aged 65 and above. Public insurance beneficiaries, including Medicare and Medicaid recipients, report higher satisfaction levels compared to those with private insurance. However, approximately 24% of respondents experienced claims denials or delays in care, treatment, or medication within the past two years, with women and private insurance holders reporting slightly more issues than their counterparts. Younger adults under 45 years old show notably lower satisfaction levels with their health insurance, a trend mirrored among college graduates and political independents. The survey also highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with 46% favoring its continuation, 24% preferring repeal, and the rest undecided. Support for the ACA is relatively consistent among both public and private insurance enrollees. Political affiliation influences perceptions of healthcare management, with a majority of respondents trusting the Democratic Party more than the Republican Party to handle healthcare costs. Women predominantly favor Democrats for this role, whereas men exhibit an even split in party trust. These insights offer a nuanced understanding of consumer satisfaction and challenges in the U.S. health insurance market, emphasizing the persistent impact of claim processing issues despite generally high satisfaction rates. The survey was conducted online by NBC News Decision Desk and SurveyMonkey between November 20 and December 8, 2025, sampling over 20,000 adults. The findings carry implications for insurers regarding claim management, customer service, and policy communications, especially to younger demographics who demonstrate greater dissatisfaction. Moreover, the data sheds light on public opinion regarding the ACA amid continuing healthcare policy discussions. This analysis is relevant for health insurance providers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders focused on regulatory compliance, customer experience enhancements, and addressing demographic disparities in health coverage satisfaction.