Americans are drowning in medical debt. Here's how one family found a lifeline.
Updated on: November 13, 2026 / 12:28 PM EST / CBS News
TL;DR
- Approximately 40% of Americans have medical debt for expenses not covered by insurance.
- High healthcare costs are a major financial worry for U.S. voters.
- The Smith family accumulated over $30,000 in medical debt, including credit card balances, due to their son's hospitalization and Caty's chronic illness.
- To manage their debt, the Smiths consulted a credit counseling firm, Money Management International.
- The firm helped them negotiate lower interest rates and establish a realistic repayment plan.
- The family is projected to be debt-free by the end of 2027.
- The experience taught the Smiths the importance of financial prudence and avoiding consumer debt.