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

Americans are drowning in medical debt. Here's how one family found a lifeline.

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.