BOSTON — Stuart H. Altman, Ph.D., internationally recognized leader in health policy and economics, beloved teacher, loving patriarch, and inaugural chair of the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC), passed away on January 1, 2026.
“Our country has lost a legend. Throughout his six decades working in the highest echelons of academia and government, Dr. Altman dedicated his life to public service and was committed to realizing the vision of a health care system that is affordable and accessible for all. The world is a better place for his having lived in it,” said David Seltz, HPC’s Executive Director. “The HPC Board of Commissioners and staff will always cherish the time we had with Stuart as a stalwart leader, a trusted colleague, and as a charismatic, brilliant ‘two-handed’ economist. We relied on his mischievous wit, wise counsel, and warm support. We will miss our friend.
“Stuart understood that the story of health policy reform in this country is unfinished. He devoted himself to teaching, inspiring, and mentoring so many students and colleagues to continue this journey in the decades ahead, focused on advancing the common good. We will continue that work in Massachusetts, with renewed commitment in honor of his unparalleled legacy, to achieve that long overdue vision.”
Dr. Altman served as an advisor to multiple U.S. presidents and was one of the most influential health policy economic experts in the United States. In 2012, he accepted the appointment from Governor Deval Patrick to become the first Chair of the Board for the Health Policy Commission. He served in this role for ten years, helping guide the establishment, growth, and success of this first-in-the-nation independent agency focused on moderating health care cost growth and promoting health care affordability in Massachusetts.
