The Massachusetts Health Policy Commission issues its annual report on cost trends, finding that almost a decade after reform was initiated in the state, costs are still high, not well-controlled and much spending is wasted.
Under the current Medicare Advantage plan payment methodology, plans receive more for sicker enrollees, but research in the Journal of Health Economics finds no evidence plans are selecting for these less healthy beneficiaries in order to get higher reimbursement.
Research published in Health Affairs studies a long-running wellness effort at PepsiCo, finding that the disease management component appears to save on health costs but the lifestyle modification portion does not.
A consumer survey from the Altarum Institute gives insight into decision-making and attitudes about health and health care coverage.
Legendary strategist Michael Porter has fixed his sights on health care and his latest missive in the Harvard Business Review lays out a vision which unfortunately is based on a number of inaccurate perceptions of the current health system.
Medication therapy management has become more common, especially for the elderly. A review from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality finds little evidence to date that it improves most outcomes.
Medigap insurance is purchased by many Medicare beneficiaries to cover cost-sharing. A new paper confirms that having this insurance leads to higher Medicare spending.
The Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute has released its 2013/14 prescription drug benefit report.
A study done by KNG Health Consulting for Academy Health finds that the Medicare hospital readmission penalties disproportionately affect hospitals servicing low income patients; the very hospitals that can least afford to lose resources.
CMS’ Office of the Actuary has released its health spending summary for 2012, showing very welcome continued low growth.