Opting not to seek care when exhibiting these symptoms, however, is not surprising to the authors, who say that the risk of contracting the infection combined with furloughs and permanent layoffs worldwide are large drivers for this reasoning.

Another is the cost of healthcare. While the government has made testing free of charge under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, trips to the hospital alone can cost thousands in out-of-pocket fees, especially if a doctor deems a test unnecessary, if the provider is out-of-network or if the treatment for unrelated conditions is required.


“Greater clarity regarding these issues for the public is advisable,” said the blog. “It would likely be prudent for leaders and public health officials to not assume that the main symptoms of COVID-19 are universally known and to continuously provide updated information for where to go for local testing, cost expectations for treatment, and patient capacity at local hospitals.”

The findings are part of an ongoing, two-part special study conducted by Gallup and West Health to evaluate public opinion on the cost of U.S. healthcare. The first part was conducted between April 1 and 14.

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