Special Event or Public Session

March 13, 2019 – Benchmark Hearing

Hearing on the Potential Modification of the 2020 Health Care Cost Growth Benchmark

Under the framework set forth in Chapter 224, the HPC Board may modify the annual health care cost growth benchmark established in statute for calendar year 2020. As required by state law, the HPC will set the 2020 benchmark equal to potential gross state product minus 0.5 percent, or 3.1%, unless the HPC determines that an adjustment to the benchmark is reasonably warranted. The HPC held a hearing on Wednesday, March 13, 2019, to solicit feedback from market participants, stakeholders, and other interested parties on whether modification of the benchmark is appropriate.

Testimony

Oral Testimony

The in-person testimony can be viewed on our YouTube channel here. The following parties delivered in-person testimony on whether modification of the benchmark is appropriate:

Wellforce
Massachusetts Medical Society
Lawrence General Hospital
Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association
Health Care for All
Massachusetts Association of Health Plans
National Federation of Independent Business
Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee
Greater Boston Interfaith Organization
Massachusetts Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Written Testimony

The following parties submitted written testimony on whether modification of the benchmark is appropriate.