The Intersection of Medical Debt and Predatory Lending Among Hispanics

Abstract

This pilot study explored the link between predatory lending and health care debt among Hispanics. Research shows that links exist between health care costs, debt, poverty, and race (Draught & Silva, 2003; Zeldin & Rukavina, 2007). Prior to this study there was no research on the intersection between medical debt and predatory lending although there was reason to believe this link exists (Seifert, 2004). Our results confirm this link and we propose means to break it.

Keywords:

• medical debt
• predatory lending
• Hispanics

Acknowledgments

This research was funded by the College of Arts and Sciences, The University of Oklahoma.