Press Release

Health Care Spending Grew Faster Than Inflation, Labor Costs, and Income, Exacerbating Affordability Challenges for Massachusetts Residents

A major driver of spending growth is pharmaceutical spending, which, net of rebates, increased by $1 billion or 10% from 2022 to 2023

BOSTON —  The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC), in conjunction with the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, held the Health Care Cost Growth Benchmark Hearing today, an annual hearing to assess performance against last year’s benchmark and consider the target for the next year (calendar year 2026). 

Health Policy Commission Executive Director David Seltz: Statement on CHIA’s Annual Report

BOSTON —  “CHIA’s Annual Report on the Performance of the Massachusetts Health Care System documents that health care cost growth is continuing to grow at an alarming pace. Total health care expenditures totaled $78.1 billion dollars in 2023, representing 8.6% growth from the prior year -- far surpassing the state’s health care cost growth benchmark of 3.6%, with real ramifications for our residents and businesses.

Statement From HPC Executive Director David Seltz on Historic Massachusetts Health Care Bills

BOSTON —  “Today, Governor Healey signed two historic health care bills into law that will strengthen oversight of the health care market and address rising drug costs. The HPC applauds the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, as well as Speaker Mariano and Senate President Spilka for working to pass consequential and nation-leading legislation to protect patients and to improve the access and affordability of health care in the Commonwealth.

HPC Determines First State-Mandated Performance Improvement Plan Targeting $176 Million in Health Care Savings Was Successful

Mass General Brigham health care spending growth was meaningfully reduced during the 18-month improvement plan. Sustainability of cost savings will depend on MGB’s long-term commitment to the state’s health care cost growth benchmark.