Activism 2026: Influencers, Medical Bills

 Way back in the late 1960s, activism took the form of telling us Boomers not to pay our bills. Those doing the telling were hairy types like Abbie Hoffman, the bills not to be paid were utilities. That was supposed to send messages about the Viet Nam war, non-engaged higher education and, yes, greedy landlords.

Here in 2026, the tellers, reports The Wall Street Journal, are Influencers. The bills not to be paid or delayed tactics used are the medical ones. The statement, obviously, is that the whole healthcare loop, from insurance to treatment, is way too expensive. 

What's going down is this, details the WSJ:

"In just the last three months, there have been more than 426,000 mentions across X, Bluesky, YouTube and Reddit of medical bills, advice not to pay them, tips on negotiating bills lower, and related topics ... "

A year ago, there were only a bit over 1,000 mentions.

The folks adopting this activist point of view aren't just the ones who can't afford some form of Obamacare, lost their coverage when they lost their job (COBRA isn't cheap), and/or have simply had it with the low-dose aspirin on the invoice billed at $62.

Also among the protestors are we Boomers, back again enraged. 

What was supposed to be the Promised Land of Medicare and supplements like Medicare Advantage keeps getting trashed. That's with bigger co-pays and reduced benefits. In 2027, I could wind up ponying up $7,150 out-of-pocket.  Instead of dental coverage of $4K, it will be $2K.

Depending on your state, not paying your medical bill or delays might not affect your credit score. 

After the midterms our society might be repositioned to have a better shot at reforming the expense of healthcare. Access, also. Several years ago I had to relocate from Tulsa, Oklahoma because, at that time, I couldn't get into the system of medical and psychiatric services.

In coaching/tarot-readings, I hammer to clients that most personal bankruptcies happen because of medical bills. Also the need for employer-based health insurance is a major obstacle to going out there and starting your own business.

Careers. Forget all that. It’s about earning a good living, no matter what. Intuitive coaching and, upon request, tarot readings.

Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova, StreetSmart Coaching (janegenova374@gmail.com)


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