Health Affairs June 27, 2024
Chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer’s impose a heavy burden on our health care system and society. Not surprisingly, these illnesses are our nation’s largest driver of health care costs. Recent statements by the director of the Congressional Budget Office offer a profound reminder that medicines provide an essential tool to slow health care cost growth by countering the impact of chronic disease. Specifically, Director Phillip Swagel noted “If we spend money up front, improve people’s health…we could lower spending on health care.” These are not novel concepts. Unfortunately, current public policies seem to be moving our health care system in the opposite direction as the burden of chronic illness continues to rise.
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