The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC) is an independent state agency working to improve the affordability of health care for all residents of the Commonwealth.
Through data-driven analysis, actionable policy insights, public accountability, and innovative investments, the HPC seeks to improve health care delivery, lower costs, and reduce health disparities.
Research and Policy Spotlights
Explore timely and relevant research on issues facing residents of the Commonwealth.
Health Care Affordability
Learn about the HPC's research on health care affordability.
Health Equity
Health Care Workforce
Pharmaceutical Drug Costs
Behavioral Health Workforce Center
Learn about the HPC's hub for research on the behavioral health workforce.
HPC by the Numbers
3.6%
The Health Care Cost Growth Benchmark, a statewide target for the rate of growth of total health care expenditures in 2025.
$10,175
Annual health care spending per person in Massachusetts in 2022, exceeding the national average by more than $2,000.
$100M+
Total amount disbursed by the HPC to investment program awardees between 2014 and 2023.
5.8%
Rise in health care costs between 2021 and 2022, exceeding the 3.1% benchmark for that year.
Public Meetings
Board Meetings Policy Committee Meetings Advisory Council Meetings Special Events and Public Sessions Annual Costs Trends Hearings
Office of Patient Protection
Through its Office of Patient Protection (OPP), the HPC safeguards the rights of health insurance consumers by regulating the internal appeal process and administering external reviews for consumers with fully-insured Massachusetts health insurance. OPP also issues open enrollment waivers and provides information and education about health insurance concerns to the public.