New Report: Wisconsin Health Care Costs Far Exceed National Average
Rising Health Care Costs Threaten Wisconsin Employers and Economic Growth
Health care costs are increasingly becoming one of Wisconsin’s most significant competitive challenges.
A new report from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce highlights just how far costs have diverged from national benchmarks and the growing impact on employers across the state.
Key findings include:
- Wisconsin’s health care costs are 55% higher than the national average, ranking second highest in the U.S.
- Costs consume 34% more per-capita income than the national average
- Hospital prices have increased 260% since 2000, far outpacing wage growth
- Employers often pay significantly different prices for the same services with little to no price transparency
- 7 in 10 employers report that rising costs are forcing cuts to hiring, investment, or compensation
These trends point to a systemic issue not driven by utilization, but by pricing and a lack of transparency. The result is a growing strain on employers, employees, and Wisconsin’s broader economy.
At Business Health Care Group, employers are working together to address these challenges head-on. Through data-driven insights, collaboration, and innovative benefit strategies, BHCG is helping drive greater accountability and more sustainable health care solutions.
Health care costs don’t have to define Wisconsin’s economic future—but without action, they will.
Read the full report from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce:
https://www.wmc.org/press-releases/egregious-healthcare-costs-wisconsins-economic-disadvantage/