State of patient access survey results

Patient access remains one of the most persistent and complex challenges in health care, affecting outcomes, patient satisfaction and system efficiency. At its core, access refers to a patient’s ability to obtain timely, appropriate care — but barriers exist at nearly every step of the journey. Workforce shortages, particularly in primary care and nursing, continue to limit appointment availability and extend wait times. At the same time, administrative burdens such as prior authorizations and insurance verification create friction that delays care even after patients enter the system.

Financial pressures also play a major role. Rising out-of-pocket costs and high-deductible health plans can discourage patients from seeking care altogether, especially for preventive services. Geographic disparities further compound the issue, with rural and underserved urban communities facing limited provider networks and transportation challenges.

On the operational side, many health systems struggle with inefficient scheduling processes, fragmented communication and outdated technology. While digital tools like online scheduling, telehealth and patient portals have improved convenience, they have not fully resolved underlying access gaps — and in some cases have introduced new inequities for less tech-savvy populations.

Improving patient access requires a multifaceted approach, balancing workforce capacity, streamlined operations, financial transparency and equitable use of technology to ensure patients can receive the right care at the right time. The Experian Patient Access Survey 2026 sheds light on these issues. Here are the key findings.