Most Americans have delayed healthcare over the past three years, and that could spell increased cost of treatment, a recent survey said.  (iStock)

More than half (58%) of employed Americans delayed routine healthcare in the past three years because of cost concerns, a recent survey said.

Additionally, 69% of those putting off care due to cost and insurance barriers, had three or more chronic conditions, compared to 51% with none, according to the survey by Integrated Benefits Institute. 

Employers said they understood that delays in treatment could not only make symptoms worse but also increased the complexity and cost of treatment, according to the survey. 

"This makes tracking rates of delayed care important for employers, so they can both encourage employees to get the treatment they need, as well as budget for healthcare costs going forward," the survey said. 

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