More competitive hospital markets had more than 8% reductions in premiums. That translates into savings of more than $20 a month for consumers in markets with less hospital concentration, according to a report commissioned by America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP). The report, authored by Scott Thompson, Ph.D. and published in the Antitrust Health Care Chronicle, finds that hospital systems with strong market influence can often negotiate higher rates for their services. Each additional effective hospital competitor is associated with a 1.5% drop in the cost of insurance premiums. Consumers in more competitive markets, such as Los Angeles, saw average monthly savings of $32.90 in reduced premiums when compared to consumers purchasing coverage in San Francisco, a market with fewer hospital competitors.

AHIP president and CEO Karen Ignagni said, “Consumers and employers benefit from competitive markets that promote affordability and choice. More needs to be done to encourage competition among providers. Hospital consolidation comes with a price that consumers and employers simply cannot afford.”