Growing healthcare costs in the U.S. are a major concern. Policy efforts are needed to address major drivers of healthcare costs, especially in key areas like hospital services, health insurance, and prescription drugs.
Key points:
- Rising healthcare costs are a concern for patients, policymakers, and taxpayers. Roughly 3 in 10 Americans have delayed or forgone seeking medical treatment due to costs.
- Hospitals, health insurance, and pharmaceuticals represent three areas with opportunities to address some of the main drivers of healthcare costs in the U.S.
- Underlying the various drivers of healthcare costs is the common theme of a dysfunctional marketplace hampered by anti-competitive behavior and excessive regulation.