Minnesotans’ Health Care Costs Rose as Usage Dropped From 2019 To 2023

A recent report shows that in Minnesota per-person health care spending among commercially insured residents under age 65 rose from about $6,224 in 2019 to $7,154 in 2023, an increase of roughly 15 percent, reports the Minnesota Reformer. Simultaneously, total usage of health care services fell during that period, meaning that spending went up even as people used fewer services. The discrepancy suggests that rising prices, higher per-unit costs, or changes in benefit/pharmacy design may be driving affordability challenges more than just increased utilization. Because higher spending per person can translate into higher premiums, cost-sharing or out-of-pocket burdens, this trend raises concerns about affordability for Minnesota consumers and employers.