HHS: Medicare spending $316 billion less

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released an analysis that finds Medicare spending between 2009 and 2013 was approximately $316 billion lower than what it would have been if the average growth rate for 2000 to 2008 had continued through 2013.

“We’re very pleased to see that cumulative Medicare spending from 2009 through 2013 was $316 billion less than it would have been if 2000 – 2008 growth rates had continued,” said Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell. “This is a good result for the taxpayer and our economy. We are also spending our dollars more wisely and improving the quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries.  Using tools in the Affordable Care Act, we are changing  the nation’s health care delivery system to one that achieves better care, smarter spending, and healthier people.”

Link to ASPE Report: http://aspe.hhs.gov/health/reports/2015/MedicareSpending/ib_MedicareSpending.pdf