About Affordability
Health care is a basic human need, one that Californians rely on to live, grow, and prosper. Unfortunately, the cost of care has become too high for many working families. For years, California’s hospitals have made headway toward controlling costs. To ensure care for every Californian, the entire health care field must tighten its belt — insurance companies, physicians, labor unions, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and more. California’s hospitals stand ready to tackle this challenge through engagement with the Office of Health Care Affordability
Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) – A Deep Dive on Spending Targets
Join CHA staff for a deeper look at what this proposal means, the detrimental impacts this will have on health care, and how hospitals can lend their voices to protect patient care.
OHCA Board and Advisory Committee Deliberate Over Proposed Spending Target
What’s happening: In separate meetings this week, members of the Office of Health Care Affordability’s (OHCA) board and advisory committee offered varying perspectives on OHCA’s proposed spending target of 3%, some endorsing the target and others questioning its rationale and attainability.
What else to know: CHA commented in writing and at both meetings testified in person, joined by hospital and health care organizations advocating for changes as OHCA contemplates a final target.
OHCA Staff Issues Final Spending Target Recommendation
What’s happening: Yesterday, the Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) released its final recommendation of a 3% spending growth target for 2025-29.
What else to know: CHA submitted comments on this proposal Jan. 18. As CHA continues to advocate for an attainable, sustainable target, members’ support will be crucial in demonstrating the detrimental impact a 3% spending target would have on patient care.
CHA Releases Advocacy Materials for 2024
What’s happening: New and updated advocacy materials are available for your use.
What else to know: Each packet contains an infographic, key messages, and an issue brief.
Infographic: Health Care Cost Drivers and Access to Care
Issue Brief: A Path Toward Reducing Spending Growth Without Sacrificing Access to Care
OHCA must engage every sector of health care in making data-driven decisions that improve care access, quality, and equity.
Key Messages: Understand Health Care Costs and OHCA’s Role in Shaping Health Care Delivery
California hospitals are among the most cost-efficient in the nation, despite factors outside their control.
CHA Will Host Jan. 8 Webinar on OHCA Cost and Market Impact Review Process
What’s happening: CHA will host a complimentary, members-only webinar on Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. (PT) to discuss how the Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) will conduct cost and market impact reviews (CMIRs).
What else to know: Registration is required to attend.
Major OHCA Developments to Track in 2024
What’s happening: OHCA ended 2023 with a proposed preliminary spending target of 3% annually for five years and it finalized cost and market impact review regulations.
What else to know: OHCA’s policy development and implementation is expected to accelerate in 2024, specifically related to the adoption of an initial health care spending target.
Office of Health Care Affordability Cost & Market Impact Review Process
Hear directly from CHA and the Department of Health Care Access and Information, Office of Health Care Affordability experts on how this review process will impact your hospital.