Publications

In the 2016 Cost Trends Report, the Health Policy Commission (HPC) reported that 42% of all ED visits in Massachusetts in 2015 were avoidable, a share that has remained constant since 2011. HPC expanded this analysis to better understand these avoidable ED visits.

In August 2016, the Health Policy Commission (HPC) reported its findings that a substantial number of emergency department (ED) visits are for preventable oral health conditions. ED visits for oral health complaints are a particularly poor use of the health system for both patients and providers alike.

This factsheet evaluates the Community Hospital Acceleration, Revitalization, and Transformation (CHART) Program’s Phase 1 results and the impact of short-term, high-need investments across 28 community hospitals in Massachusetts.

The Office of Patient Protection (OPP), operated by the HPC, is responsible for regulating and administering certain health care consumer protections for the Commonwealth. OPP is a resource for individuals who want to become more informed and empowered health care consumers. This annual report provides a comprehensive overview of the activities of the Office in the year 2015.

In this annual report for 2016, the HPC presents new research to enhance the collective understanding of health care spending trends and cost drivers and evaluates progress in meeting the Commonwealth’s cost containment, care delivery, and payment system goals.

An annual report released by the HPC providing an overview to the structure and budget of the agency, through fiscal year 2017.

An annual report released by the HPC documenting projects and activities undertaken during the HPC's 2016 Summer Fellowship Program.

This research brief analyzes the serious illness and end of life health care landscape in Massachusetts.

This 2016 report is one in a series of regularly reported updates on the impact of opioid use on the health care system, availability of pharmacologic treatment, and recommendations for payment and care delivery reform in the Commonwealth.