State Innovation in Health Care Cost Control
Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
Time: 11:45 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Omni Parker House, 60 School Street, Boston, MA 02108
The Johnston Health Policy Forum held a forum entitled, “State Innovation in Health Care Cost Control”on Friday, June 5, 2026 at the Omni Parker House.
Health care costs continue to outpace inflation, placing growing pressure on individuals, families, employers, and state budgets. In Massachusetts, health care inflation rose 7% between 2022-2024, while paid medical claims grew 15%, member-cost sharing rose 12% and premiums grew 9%. Despite ongoing efforts to contain spending in many states, the gap between health care cost growth and overall economic growth remains a central challenge for policymakers and stakeholders alike.
The forum commissioned new analysis of state health of state policy initiatives in Massachusetts and other states, aimed at controlling costs while maintaining access and quality. It will also feature a discussion with key healthcare leaders to explore practical pathways forward for Massachusetts.
Panel Discussion Participants:
Michael Dandorph, President and CEO Tufts Medical Center
Sarah Iselin, President and Chief Executive Officer Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
JD Chesloff, CEO, Massachusetts Business Roundtable
David Cutler, Otto Eckstein Professor of Applied Economic and Dean of Social Science, Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University
This event is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Business Roundtable and Associated Industries of Massachusetts.