AAPI Survey Reveals Healthcare Trust Issues and Financial Stress

A recent nationwide survey of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults highlights significant concerns related to financial stress, health issues, and experiences of discrimination. Conducted by The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and AAPI Data from March 23-30, 2026, the study gathered insights from 1,228 respondents across these communities.

The survey findings reveal varied trust levels in healthcare professionals. A high degree of confidence is placed in doctors and nurses (80%), pharmacists (74%), and mental health counselors (58%). Conversely, trust is notably lower for federal public health officials, alternative medicine practitioners, health insurance providers, and hospital executives, with each group receiving less than 30% confidence from respondents. This pattern aligns with historical trends.

Policy Preferences and Alternative Medicine Use

In terms of federal health policy, a majority of AAPI adults (74%) support restrictions on processed foods with added sugars or dyes. There is, however, a split regarding alterations to federal dietary guidelines to emphasize animal-based products, with 31% in favor and 26% opposed. Additionally, there is considerable resistance to changes in vaccine policies.

Alternative medicine is widely adopted within the community, with 79% using such methods in the past year. Common practices include dietary supplements (62%), probiotics (46%), mindfulness (32%), and movement practices such as Yoga or Tai Chi (21%). Many respondents are motivated by recommendations from medical doctors or the prohibitive costs of conventional treatments.

Healthcare Affordability and Discrimination Concerns

Affordability and accessibility of healthcare are major worries, with approximately half of the survey participants concerned about treatment costs. Furthermore, one-third express apprehension about how seriously providers address their conditions and the security of their medical records.

The study also delves into stress factors, revealing that 75% of AAPI adults cite personal finances as a significant stressor, followed by health issues and relationships. While discrimination is a less widespread concern, it impacts 48% of respondents. Over 10% have faced hate crimes, and another 20% encountered hate incidents in the past year.

Discrimination, particularly related to employment, healthcare, and law enforcement interactions, is prevalent. Many anticipate future incidents due to race or immigrant status, leading to higher anxiety levels among those who have experienced hate crimes or major stressors. The Amplify AAPI Monthly survey, which conducted this research, offers interviews in multiple languages and reports a margin of error of +/- 4.5 percentage points, providing valuable insights into the AAPI community's experiences.