An analysis of claims data finds that health centers save, on average, $2,371 in total spending per Medicaid patient when compared to other providers.

A sweeping multistate study led by University of Chicago researchers validates what many public health advocates have known for years: Community Health Centers are a tremendous value.

The study, which will appear in the November issue of American Journal of Public Health, analyzed Medicaid claims data from 13 states for health center and non-health center patients, and found that health centers save, on average, $2,371 (or 24%) in total spending per Medicaid patient when compared to other providers.

The savings came primarily from lower utilization and spending across key drivers of healthcare costs, including:;

22% fewer hospital visits
33% lower spending on specialty care
25% fewer hospital admissions
27% lower spending on inpatient care
24% lower total spending
Dan Hawkins, senior vice president for Policy and Research at the National Association of Community Health Centers, …
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Community Health Centers Save Medicaid 24%