Most states spent more on health care in 2014 than in previous years, and a few directed even more spending toward home health care, according to recent data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Here are the top five states that recorded the highest annual average growth in home health care spending between 1991 and 2014:
1. Alaska—The 49th U.S. state has seen its spending on home health care services grow an average of 17% per year between 1991 and 2014. However, the jump in spending might not be that surprising, given the state only spent $4 million on home health care services in 1991—a figure well below most other states and regions. In 2014, Alaska spent roughly $144 million on home health care services.
2. Hawaii—Another non-contiguous state, Hawaii, has continued to spend more on home health services for its residents, with an average annual percentage growth of 12.2%. By 2014, the state spent $230 million on these services.
3. Minnesota—As one of the states that directs the greatest proportion of its Medicaid dollars toward home- and community-based services compared to any other states, according to AARP, it’s logical Minnesota has seen some of the highest growth in its home health spending over the years. In 2014, the state spent around $2.86 billion on home health, with an average annual growth rate of 12%.
4. District of Columbia—Washington, D.C., spent $430 million on home health in 2014, with an average annual growth rate of 11.8% from 1991 to 2014.
5. Nevada—Another western state, Nevada rounded out the top five states for most growth in home health care spending, with $661 million going to home health in 2014. The state has an average annual growth spending rate of 11.4% since 1991.
Access CMS’ full Health Expenditures by State of Residence, 1991-2014 here.
Written by Amy Baxter
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