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Economic forecasters expect U.S. growth in 2026 to settle between 1.5% and 2%—sluggish, but not recessionary. Still, analysts warn that if inflation reignites or global trade pressures intensify, a mild downturn is possible. For many households, this uncertainty fuels anxiety—especially around rising health-care costs.On today’s program, Lauren Gajdek, Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), joins us to offer practical guidance for navigating health-care expenses in a slow-growth, high-uncertainty environment.Lauren notes that beyond slower GDP projections, unemployment remains elevated at 4.4% and inflation has yet to return to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. That combination creates financial pressure for both working families and retirees. If someone loses their job—and, with it, employer-provided health coverage—Lauren explains the options: COBRA allows continuation of benefits, but the individual must pay the full premium, which is extremely costly. Marketplace plan