The Center for Healthcare Research & Transformation (CHRT) today released a cost analysis showing that those who are severely obese⁽¹⁾Severely obese defined as BMI of 35 kg/m2 or greater. have a significantly higher health burden and health costs than those who are moderately obese⁽²⁾Moderately obese defined as BMI of 30 – 34.9 kg/m2., an indication that intervention efforts focused on the severely obese are particularly important.

The issue brief, titled “Obesity in Michigan: Impact and Opportunity,” reviewed rates of moderate and severe obesity among 29,691 adults covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and found that the severely obese, compared to the moderately obese:Continue Reading CHRT Report Shows Health Care Costs of Obesity Surge For Severely Obese

The Center for Healthcare Research & Transformation (CHRT) today released a report tracking trends in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) funding. From March 2010 when the ACA became law through the most recent fiscal year ending in September 2013, nearly $15.1 billion in grants was awarded in the United States and District of Columbia. Michigan received $305.4 million in awards, ranking 16th in the U.S. behind the lower population states of Colorado, Kentucky, and Oregon, states that established their own health insurance exchanges.

The issue brief, “Affordable Care Act Funding: An Analysis of Grant Programs under Health Care Reform — FY2010–FY2013,” examines grant programs funded by the ACA, shows how funds have been distributed to states and local organizations, and notes the effects of budget sequestration on future ACA funding.Continue Reading Michigan Awarded $305 Million in Federal Funds under the Affordable Care Act

The Center for Healthcare Research & Transformation (CHRT) today released data showing that while one in four Michiganders reported being diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety, finding mental health services is difficult for consumers in most areas of the state, a fact confirmed by primary care providers seeking to refer patients.

The research brief, “Access to Mental Health Care in Michigan,” examines the need for mental health care along with capacity of Michigan’s health care system to serve people with mental health needs. Findings show that the increase in mental health coverage under the Affordable Care Act will be limited in its ability to help those most in need unless the state also expands capacity.Continue Reading CHRT study shows Michigan’s mental health system broken, lacks capacity, care not integrated