The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality noted that during 2009, a total of 1 percent of Americans represented nearly 22 percent of healthcare costs.

The figure meant that for every $5 spent, $1 of that was used to treat one out of 100 patients, the report noted. This showed a total of $1.26 trillion was spent on that 1 percent during 2009, averaging out to a total of $90,061 per person per year. The 2009 figure was higher than 2008, as that year's most expensive 1 percent represented 20.2 percent of the total healthcare costs.

Despite the high figures, this was down from 1996, when the 1 percent was billed 28 percent of the total expenditures for healthcare in the United States, the source noted.

"[There was] some decrease in this concentration at the upper tail of the expenditure distribution," said Steven Cohen and William Yu, research experts for AHRQ.

Continued increases in healthcare industry expenses could mean health insurance rates could be rising, overall. This may mean consumers could benefit by comparing rates to see if there is a less expensive option available.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is informing Americans that it is important to take precautions during the winter, as it could keep them and their families safe.

Make sure that all family members wear the appropriate clothing for the weather outside, the report noted. That includes jackets, hats, gloves and boots. Other layered clothing underneath is also important.

Also, when around the outside of the home, be vigilant and make sure there are no ice patches around, the CDC stressed. If there are, it is important to spread items such as sand, ice melt or cat litter. Avoid traveling during big storms, as well. However, if traveling is necessary, it is important for consumers to inform someone of their planned route, as well as when they are expecting to reach their destination. When outside, try to be in a group, so if something happens, there is help immediately there.

Consumers who have to work outside can be exposed to extreme conditions, which can be unhealthy. It may be a smart idea to compare health insurance quotes, as these could ensure that the coverage a family has is sufficient.

Healthcare expenses are becoming burdens for a large portion of older Americans, according to a report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute.

The survey noted that 21.5 percent of households with Americans over the age of 50 have been forced to alter their prescription drug options due to cost. In addition, nearly 20 percent reported avoiding the doctor when they have needed to go.

"We know that consumption tends to fall with age, but it's difficult to measure whether falling consumption is voluntary," said Sudipto Banerjee of EBRI, author of the study. "However, we found evidence that a significant segment of the older population may be making spending adjustments to their health care in order to save money."

More than 27 percent of older Americans noted they have experienced trouble with their ability to make bill payments, due to their healthcare costs, the survey noted. Another 30 percent of older consumers who have struggling health needed to change their prescription drug habits.

Older Americans who are struggling with health insurance payments may be better served by a plan with a lower deductible. Comparing affordable health insurance rates may help save money, especially with rising costs elsewhere.

A survey from The American Psychological Association found that stress is a common issue for Americans, and this can be a problem for long-term health.

More than 20 percent of those surveyed noted they had very high stress levels, according to the association's survey "Stress in America: Our Health at Risk." Severe stress was determined anything higher than eight on a one to 10 scale. Another 40 percent of Americans noted their stress levels have gone up in the past year, while nearly 45 percent have witnessed an increase in the past five years.

"We are caught in a vicious cycle where our stress exceeds our own definition of what is healthy, and those who are already living with a chronic illness report even higher levels of stress," said Dr. Norman Anderson, chief executive officer and executive vice president for APA. "Yet we're ill-equipped to make changes to better manage that stress."

Consumers who deal with stress may want to ask for help from a professional, as it can be managed. In order to make their medical bills less expensive, it could be a good plan to compare affordable health insurance rates.

Health insurance company John Hancock recently released a survey that showed many Americans understand the importance of long-term care, but not many have such coverage.

A total of 60 percent of Americans noted they will likely need long-term healthcare later in life, and more than 80 percent noted it is a bad idea to not plan for long-term healthcare costs. Another 60 percent noted that one of these items is the best way to prepare for the future. However, only 11 percent said they actually own this type of insurance.

"While it is encouraging to see an increase in general knowledge," said Marianne Harrison, president of John Hancock LTC Insurance. "The survey's overall results are a cause for concern because most consumers appear to be making long-term care plans by default, thinking they'll rely on government programs, which already are showing signs of strain."

For those who have long-term care health insurance, it may also not be a bad idea to compare affordable health insurance rates, as there may be a more inexpensive plan out there that will reduce overall costs.