Since 2010, the number of urgent care centers in Massachusetts increased eight-fold, while the number of retail clinics nearly tripled. The average cost of care for minor conditions is four to eight times lower at these settings compared to EDs.

Innovative, cutting-edge initiatives aim to address health-related social needs and increase access to timely behavioral health services for residents of Massachusetts.

Statement from Dr. Stuart H. Altman, Chair, Massachusetts Health Policy Commission:

Annual spending on imaging services for Massachusetts Medicare beneficiaries is 14 percent higher than the U.S. average; Massachusetts ranks higher than the country in total imaging volume and use of more expensive facility settings.

Annual health care spending for patients in the highest-cost provider organization was 32 percent higher than in the lowest-cost provider organization

The HPC seeks compelling new ideas from Massachusetts health care providers for reducing avoidable emergency department visits and hospital readmissions, including through models that increase patient access to timely behavioral health services

First-in-the-Nation Program Aims to Improve Health and Lower Costs Through High-Quality, Coordinated Care

Report Referred to Other State Agencies for Further Consideration

Statement from Dr. Stuart H. Altman, Chair, Massachusetts Health Policy Commission:

Growth in overall health spending is below both the state’s 3.6% benchmark and the U.S. average; however, affordability challenges remain and growth in spending for pharmaceuticals and hospital outpatient care present challenges for the Commonwealth.