$28,303 - That’s how much the average work-sponsored health insurance plan now costs for a family of four in the United States. And that doesn’t include out of pocket expenses for things like medications, copays or deductibles, which can add thousands of dollars more.  

8 - 15% - That’s how much more expensive health insurance premiums, on average, will be next year. Harvard health economist Meredith Rosenthal tells CGTN that even people making $100,000 a year are feeling squeezed. 

5 million - That’s how many people dropped their health insurance altogether this year after U.S. lawmakers allowed Affordable Care Act subsidies to expire. 

Experts say that rising costs and new eligibility requirements could force another 4 million people to drop their health coverage in 2027. 

Seniors are also feeling squeezed. Their deductibles are rising and more are seeking help to afford medication, treatments and doctor visits. 

The HealthWell Foundation is a nonprofit trying to bridge the gap between healthcare costs and healthcare needs. 

CGTN's Toni Waterman spoke to two employees answering these calls for help.

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