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HPC preview: Massachusetts premiums surging, measured low‑value care rising
Summary
HPC researchers previewed the 2026 cost trends report: average family premiums rose from about $7,000 (2000) to more than $28,000 in 2024, with projected continued growth; measured low‑value services increased and affect roughly 1 in 4 commercially insured residents in 2024, prompting calls for data‑driven improvement efforts.
HPC analysts previewed findings that the average family premium in Massachusetts rose roughly fourfold from 2000 to 2024 and has accelerated in recent years. "Premiums here grew 31% in the last 5 years compared to 20% nationally," David Auerbach said, warning that if current trends continue some industry projections show average family premiums approaching $50,000 by 2031.
Researchers also reported rising rates of measurable low‑value care captured in claims data. Auerbach said about one in four commercially insured residents received at least one measured low‑value service in 2024 (approximately 337,000 residents and about $60 million in measured spending). Commissioners discussed causes — provider practice patterns, consumer demand, access to primary care — and suggested multi‑stakeholder quality improvement and primary care investment as potential levers. Staff emphasized that the data are meant to inform constructive improvement, not to stigmatize providers. "Where there's variation, that means there's maybe something we can do," David Phelps said.
