A survey of U.S. adults with employer-sponsored health insurance found that individuals with mental health needs are far more likely to encounter obstacles when trying to access medical care, according to a Sept. 15 Axios report.
The findings come from a March and April 2025 survey shared with Axios that gathered responses from 3,103 adults covered by workplace health plans. The data highlights a persistent gap in care access, even among insured populations.
Here are five key findings:
- Twenty-seven percent of respondents reported that they or someone on their plan had a mental health condition.
- Thirty-one percent of respondents said they were unable to get needed medical care in the last six months — more than double the 15% among those without mental health conditions.
- Sixty-two percent of respondents with mental health conditions said they visited an emergency room in the last six months, making them 50% more likely to do so than those without.
- Thirty-two percent of respondents with mental health needs said a physician declined their insurance, compared to 17% of those without such needs.
- Respondents with mental health needs more often cited issues such as language barriers, child care gaps and inability to take time off work. Those without mental health needs said they are more often challenged with affordability, wait times or lack of information.
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.