reference-based pricing
Coverage of reference-based pricing in the Nexus archive.
- Massachusetts can no longer ignore the health care affordability crisis
Massachusetts faces a health care affordability crisis as costs have risen faster than inflation and median household income since 2019. Hospital spending accounts for 43% of total health care costs, with significant price variations across facilities. Other states like Rhode Island have successfully implemented hospital price caps to control costs, offering a model for Massachusetts to follow.
- Gov. Scott vetoed the Legislature’s latest attempt to lower health insurance costs. What’s next?
Gov. Phil Scott vetoed S.190, a bill to implement reference-based pricing for health insurance, arguing it unfairly prioritized certain groups. His alternative proposal, H.585, aimed to expand insurance options through association health plans and other reforms but failed to pass the Senate Finance Committee. The debate centers on balancing cost-saving measures with equitable access for small businesses and young people.
- Scott vetoes Legislature’s latest attempt at healthcare reform
Governor Phil Scott vetoed S.190, a Vermont healthcare bill aiming to accelerate premium savings for public school employees and Affordable Care Act marketplace users through reference-based pricing. Scott argued the bill unfairly targeted specific groups, opting instead for broader reforms, while supporters, including Rep. Alyssa Black, criticized the veto as vengeful.