The United States is home to one of the most expensive healthcare systems in the world, yet in spite of this massive investment, our health outcomes rank at or near the bottom compared to similar nations.

America’s inefficient healthcare system worsens our fiscal crisis, undermines our economy, and threatens our personal health and well-being. Lowering healthcare costs while improving outcomes is at the heart of building a better future for our nation.

It is impossible to improve the performance of the U.S. healthcare system if decision-makers do not understand where the challenges and opportunities exist. That is why the Center tracks and reports on the U.S. healthcare system to identify what works—and what doesn’t—to improve quality and reduce cost.