A national survey of 1,092 patients with chronic illness found broad openness to discussing financial and social needs in healthcare, though concerns about privacy and documentation persist. While most patients answered screenings honestly, many received little or no help. Stronger follow-through and integrated support are needed to address social risks.

A national survey of 2,510 patients with chronic conditions revealed widespread financial and social barriers to care, yet limited provider engagement on these needs. Patients valued navigation services, especially financial support, but affordability and awareness were challenges. Expanding equitable, patient-centered navigation can improve outcomes, reduce disparities, and strengthen trust in care.

A 2025 national survey of 1,092 patients who received PAF services in 2023 found that few were screened for social needs such as housing, food, transportation, or utilities.

Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) patients face intense financial and logistical burdens during treatment. Our findings highlight the need for flexible, patient-centered treatment approaches that reduce costs and preserve quality of life, without sacrificing provider trust and communication.

A 2025 survey of Medicare beneficiaries reveals ongoing affordability challenges that threaten treatment adherence. While recent policy reforms offer some relief, gaps remain, highlighting the need for stronger financial and patient-centered support.

In partnership with AHIP, we conducted a mixed-methods study of patient preferences that evaluated provider characteristics, care environments, and overall patient experiences that drive an equitable care experience. This data brief provides insights for providers based on patient preferences.

In partnership with AHIP, we conducted a mixed-methods study of patient preferences that evaluated provider characteristics, care environments, and overall patient experiences that drive an equitable care experience. This data brief provides insights for patients and caregivers.

In partnership with AHIP, we conducted a mixed-methods study of patient preferences that evaluated provider characteristics, care environments, and overall patient experiences that drive an equitable care experience. This data brief provides insights for payors based on patient preferences.

In April 2023, we conducted an online survey patients served by PAF who reported a cancer diagnosis prior to March 2020. Our results highlight the enduring ramifications of the pandemic on cancer care. While healthcare systems have adapted to minimize infection risks, patient concerns persist and may exacerbate existing barriers such as financial strain and logistical challenges.

Decision support tools can help patients better understand their treatment options and engage in informed discussions with their healthcare providers, enabling them to make decisions that minimize the risk of delaying or avoiding care due to financial concerns.

National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF) held a listening session titled “State of the Patient 2024” in March 2024. This listening session aimed to hear from advocates across the country about what is affecting patients in their communities.

This data brief highlights findings from a Spring 2022 nationwide survey by the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) on patients’ perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

This data brief explores health literacy and health insurance literacy in the United States. We analyzed nationwide survey data to explore how health literacy and health insurance literacy influences health and care among patients with chronic illnesses.

This gap assessment examines issues in California, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina using Healthy People 2030 metrics.

Brief detailing the results of a survey by PAF’s Patient Insight Institute about monthly financial burden prior to the implementation of the IRA in 2025.

Brief detailing the results of a survey by PAF’s Patient Insight Institute about administrative burden.

Report detailing our findings from survey and listening session data on patient experiences of SDOH screening in medical settings.

Data brief examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employment and healthcare access