Analysts examined claims data for more than 8 million people, including both employees who were enrolled in fee-for-service plans and their dependents. They found that average employer healthcare spending per member per year increased from $3,739 in 2006 to $4,625 in 2011. Spending on outpatient services grew 6.5 percent annually, while pharmacy spending had an annual growth rate of 2.1 percent, according to the study.
Spending growth was driven largely by 20 specific medical episode groups, with the top five being preventive health services, osteoarthritis (except spine), childbirth (Cesarean section), multiple sclerosis and surgical and medical care complications, according to the study.
More Articles on Healthcare Spending:
Healthcare Price Growth Hits 20-Year Low
Reports: Healthcare Spending to Stay Slow and Steady, Save Trillions
Growth in Healthcare Prices, Costs, Jobs at a Crawl
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.
