Overall U.S. health spending was at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $2.84 trillion, the same as July. Health spending accounted for 17.9 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product, which has been similar to the previous months this year.
Healthcare prices (pdf) were 2.4 percent higher in August 2012 compared with August 2011. Hospital and physician prices grew at 3.6 percent and 1 percent, respectively. Prescription drug prices continue to be the highest among all healthcare price categories. They grew 4 percent, up slightly from 3.9 percent in July.
More Articles on Healthcare Costs:
71% of Healthcare CEOs Tie Clinical Improvements to Biggest Cost Savings
Study: Standardization in Blood Product Use Could Reduce Healthcare Costs
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
