KFF Health Tracking Poll: Public Views on Fraud in Government Health Programs

By
Audrey Kearney
Isabelle Valdes
Lunna Lopes
Mardet Mulugeta
Liz Hamel
July 16, 2026

Kaiser Family Foundation (Kff)

Overview

The KFF Health Tracking Poll reveals that health care costs are the primary concern for voters, with fraud in government health programs being a significant issue, particularly among Republicans. A majority of voters believe there is fraud in these programs.

Background

Understanding public perceptions of fraud in government health programs is crucial as it influences voter priorities and policy discussions, especially with the midterm elections approaching. The findings highlight a disparity in concerns across party lines, with Republicans placing a higher emphasis on fraud compared to Democrats and independents.

Data Highlights

No numerical data is provided in the source material.

Key Findings

60% of Democratic and independent voters want candidates to address health care costs.
55% of Republican voters prioritize discussions on fraud in government health programs.
40% of voters perceive 'a lot' of fraud in Medicaid, while 36% say the same for Medicare.
71% of voters believe ensuring access to care for Medicaid beneficiaries should take precedence over preventing fraud.
65% of voters think recent Medicaid payment deferrals are politically motivated.

Clinical Implications

Health care providers should be aware of the public's concerns regarding fraud and access to care, as these perceptions may impact patient interactions and trust in the system. Additionally, understanding voter priorities can inform advocacy efforts and policy engagement.