March 25, 2021 – Benchmark Hearing

Hearing on the Potential Modification of the 2022 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 2022. As required by state law, the HPC will set the 2022 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.

Notice of Public Hearing
Agenda - Benchmark Hearing  
Presentation - Benchmark Hearing
CHIA: Annual Report on the Performance of the Massachusetts Health Care System

Testimony

Oral Testimony

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

1. Massachusetts Association of Health Plans
2. Lawrence General Hospital
3. Health Care for All
4. Signature Healthcare
5. Retailers of Massachusetts
6. Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee
7. Ms. Lauren Omartian 
8. NFIB Massachusetts
9. Mr. Thomas Brown, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)

Written Testimony

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

1. Association for Behavioral Health Care
2. Atrius Health
3. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
4. Conference of Boston Teaching Hospitals
5. Health Care For All
6. Lawrence General Hospital
7. Massachusetts Association of Health Plans
8. Massachusetts Hospital Association
9. Massachusetts Medical Society
10. Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee
11. Retailers Association of Massachusetts
12. Thomas Brown, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)
13. Howard D. Trachtman, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)