Research and Discussion on One of America's Greatest Challenges Reining in health care costs has become a central policy challenge for government and a pressing concern for American businesses, families, and individuals. A substantial body of RAND research has focused on evaluating existing and potential policies to lower health care costs; examining the cost implications of healthy and unhealthy behaviors; and improving health system efficiency and quality of care. Read More on The Rising Costs of Health Care Read the Research Brief Read the News Release View the Congressional Briefing Video

A Decade of Health Care Cost Growth has Wiped Out Real Income Gains for an Average US Family

The near doubling of health care expenditures between 1999 and 2009 has substantially eroded what an average family has left to spend on everything else.
Read Abstract
More Research on the Rising Costs of Health Care

Telephone-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Latino Patients Living in Rural Areas: A Randomized Pilot Study

Telephone based cognitive behavioral therapy could provide access to mental health services for Latinos living in rural areas.
Read Abstract
More Research on Mental Health

Multisite Cost Analysis of a School-based Voluntary Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program

Information about the costs of implementing school-based prevention programs needs to be gathered from multiple sites.
Read Abstract
More Research on Substance Use

Consolidation of Health Plans May Help Lower Hospital Costs

Increased consolidation among health plans nationally may benefit consumers by lowering hospital prices.
Read Abstract
More Research on More Research on Health Economics and Financing

Behavioral Health Insurance Parity: Does Oregon's Experience Presage the National Experience With the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act?

Full parity for behavioral health care does not significantly increase costs for mental health and substance abuse treatment.
Read Abstract
More Research on Mental Health

Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Breast Implants: Results from a Structured Expert Consultation Process

Not enough is known about a possible association between anaplastic large cell lymphoma and breast implants.
[Read Abstract](http://www.rand.org/pubs/external_publications/EP201100173.html
More Research on Cancer

Meaningful Use of Electronic Prescribing in 5 Exemplar Primary Care Practices

Effective, widespread use of e-prescribing in outpatient settings will require redesigning some work processes
Read Abstract
More Research on Health Information Technology

Spillover Effects of Community Uninsurance on Working-age Adults and Seniors: An Instrumental Variables Analysis

A higher percentage of uninsured individuals in a community leads to poorer care for those with insurance.
Read Abstract
More Research on Health Care Organization and Capacity

Malpractice Risk According to Physician Specialty

The cumulative risk of facing a malpractice claim is high in all physician specialties, but most claims don't result in payments to plaintiffs.
Read Abstract
More Research on Quality of Care

Obesity: causes and prevention strategies

Read More

How do soaring health care costs affect the finances of the average American family?

Read More

Why are many U.S. emergency departments closing?

Read More

National Evaluation of Safe Start Promising Approaches - Assessing Program Outcomes

Read More

A Global Policy Research Agenda for Non-Communicable Diseases

Read More

Physician Specialties and Malpractice: Claims Likely, But Low Chance of Payment

Read More

Power to the People: The Role of Consumer-Controlled Personal Health Management Systems in the Evolution of Employer-Based Health Care Benefits

Read More