An Executive Director for the Commonwealth Fund's Council of Economic Advisors

Although growth in U.S. health care spending has slowed significantly in recent years, the latest data indicate that this welcome trend may be ending. Factors contributing to potentially unnecessary spending vary by state, local market, and health industry sector, and by whether a payer is public or private. Thus, to control health spending and maximize value, the nation will require strategic, well-targeted policies. The Commonwealth Fund has assembled a Council of Economic Advisors to identify trends and characteristics related to health care markets and the care delivery system that contribute to rising costs, as well as to provide recommendations for potential national, state, or local policy responses. This grant will support an executive director for the Council, as well as the development of two papers analyzing trends and policy options and at least two related blog posts or perspectives. Cathy Schoen, who will be based at New York University, will serve as the executive director and will work closely with senior Fund staff to develop Council meeting agendas as well as one related analytic project.