More than 25% of Gen Z patients don’t have doctors. Experts weigh in on the cost of skipping care
More than 25 of Gen Z Skip Regular Doctor Visits
More than 25 of Gen Z patients are navigating life without a dedicated healthcare provider, marking a significant shift in how young adults approach their wellness. While routine physical examinations remain the gold standard for adult health maintenance, a substantial portion of Generation Z is stepping away from traditional medical care. According to a comprehensive national survey conducted by the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, more than one in four young adults currently lack a primary care provider. This growing trend raises serious concerns among health professionals regarding long-term health outcomes for this demographic.
The survey, which polled 1,006 individuals across various age brackets, revealed that even among Gen Zers who do have a designated physician, many neglect scheduled appointments. Released on June 29, the findings indicate that merely 47 percent of those aged 18 to 29 reported undergoing an annual wellness visit within the previous twelve months. This hesitation to seek care often stems from a reliance on digital resources, including social media platforms and artificial intelligence tools, which some experts warn can lead to misdiagnoses or delayed treatment. More than 25 of Gen Z respondents specifically cited cost concerns as a primary barrier to accessing regular medical care.
The Hidden Costs of Delayed Care
Healthcare specialists emphasize that avoiding doctor visits during early adulthood carries substantial financial and health risks. Missed opportunities for prevention in these formative years can significantly increase the likelihood of developing serious conditions later in life. For instance, colorectal cancer incidence has surged dramatically among younger populations, now standing as the foremost cause of cancer mortality for individuals under the age of 50. When More than 25 of Gen Z individuals delay seeking help for symptoms, they often face more expensive emergency interventions down the road.
“An annual visit isn’t just about today’s health — it helps identify future risks, keeps preventive care on schedule and gives you a trusted clinician who knows your medical history and can help navigate health concerns, be they physical health or mental health concerns, as they arise,” said CNN wellness contributor Dr. Leana Wen.
Dr. Wen, an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at George Washington University, noted that these regular interactions are crucial for building comprehensive health records. Although she was not part of the research team, she highlighted that having a consistent medical professional allows for better management of both physical ailments and psychological well-being as they emerge. She emphasized that many young adults underestimate how small health issues can compound without proper monitoring.
Urgent Care and the Search for Trust
When younger adults do seek medical attention, they frequently bypass primary care offices in favor of local urgent care clinics. The survey data shows that 36 percent of Gen Z respondents turn to immediate care facilities as their first point of contact for non-emergency issues. In contrast, older generations show much higher rates of primary care utilization, with 97 percent of those aged 65 and older maintaining a regular provider compared to 71 percent of younger adults. This preference for urgent care settings means that More than 25 of Gen Z patients may miss out on continuity of care that could prevent hospitalizations.
“There are lost opportunities to build a relationship of trust with somebody who can potentially keep you out of the emergency room or help support you in ways that help maintain your health over the long-term,” said Dr. Russell Phillips.
Dr. Russell Phillips, a senior adviser on innovation at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, pointed out that fragmented care leads to duplicated tests and conflicting treatment recommendations. He noted that many young adults feel more comfortable in urgent care environments where they can receive immediate attention without committing to long-term relationships with healthcare providers. This pattern suggests that while access to care exists, the way young adults engage with the healthcare system continues to evolve.
Experts recommend that young adults prioritize establishing a primary care relationship early in life. With preventive screenings becoming increasingly important for younger populations, having a consistent doctor can make a meaningful difference in health trajectories. As healthcare costs continue to rise, understanding the value of regular checkups becomes essential for those who fall into the More than 25 of Gen Z category without dedicated providers.
