Americans are suffering from crippling medical debt in a uniquely American epidemic that affects 20% of the population and has accumulated roughly $81 billion in debt. These numbers are expected to increase alongside rising uninsured rates and growing popularity of cheap, bare-bones health plans. For some, the result can be life threatening. Fear of debt can discourage patients from seeking medical attention while existing debt can negatively impact healthy lifestyle choices, exacerbating medical conditions and leading to more debt.