Hospital Giants and the Cost of Care

A nonprofit group called CASE is spending $1 million on ads to highlight how hospital monopolies are squeezing patients.

The Problem

• Buying Up Smaller Hospitals: Large hospital groups are acquiring smaller hospitals and clinics.
• Hiking Prices: They then increase prices by 200%.
• Profits Over Patient Care: The ads claim hospitals prioritize profits, leaving patients to pay more for treatment.

Market Control

• Limited Competition: In many areas, just one or two large hospital systems control the market.
• State Policies: Policies like "Certificate of Need" encourage monopolies.
• Who Pays?: Patients, employers, and taxpayers end up footing the bill.

The Debate

• Experts' Views: Some argue mergers lead to more services, but research shows they mostly drive up prices.
• Congress Hearings: Big names like UnitedHealth Group and CVS Health will testify.
• Goal: Find ways to lower healthcare costs.

The Challenge

• Republicans' Plan: Increase competition, reduce waste, and put patients first.
• Uncertain Progress: With hospital monopolies holding so much power, progress may be slow.