Medical debt is an increasing burden for low‑income populations and may limit access to needed health care. This study examined the relationship between medical debt and health care access among adult beneficiaries affected by changes to the Oregon Health Plan in 2003. Using baseline data from a prospective cohort study, results showed that individuals with medical debt were significantly more likely to experience unmet needs for general medical care, prescription medications, and urgent care compared to those without debt. Greater levels of debt were associated with higher odds of unmet care. These findings suggest that medical debt acts as a barrier to health care access and highlight the need for policies that reduce financial barriers for vulnerable populations.
