Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA)

Introduction to OHCA

Established in 2022, the Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) recognizes that it is in the public interest that all Californians receive health care that is accessible, affordable, equitable, high-quality, and universal. 
 
OHCA has three primary responsibilities: 

  • slow health care spending growth 
  • promote high value system performance, and  
  • assess market consolidation.  

OHCA will collect, analyze, and publicly report data on total health care expenditures, and enforce spending targets set by OHCA’s Health Care Affordability Board. To ensure a balanced approach to slow spending growth, OHCA will promote high value system performance by measuring quality, equity, adoption of alternative payment models, investment in primary care and behavioral health, and workforce stability. Through cost and market impact reviews, OHCA will analyze transactions that are likely to significantly impact market competition, the state’s ability to meet targets, or affordability for consumers and purchasers. Based on results of the review, OHCA will then coordinate with other state agencies to address consolidation as appropriate.

Office Updates

The Office of Health Care Affordability has announced its proposed Alternative Payment Model (APM) Standards and Adoption Goal recommendation.

The Office of Health Care Affordability has announced its recommendation for the statewide health care spending target. 

The Office of Health Care Affordability is now seeking submissions of interest from those who would like to serve on the Health Care Affordability Advisory Committee. New members will serve from July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2026. Learn more and complete the Health Care Affordability Advisory Committee Submission of Interest. The submission period will close on April 1, 2024.

Public Meetings

Material Change Transaction Notices / Cost and Market Impact Review (CMIR)

Cost-Reducing Strategies

Laws & Regulations

HCAI and OHCA program regulations (existing and proposed). 

Background & Resources

Program overview and FAQ.

Contact

Contact OHCA at ohca@hcai.ca.gov with any questions.

Subscribe to OHCA News

To receive regular informational updates about the program,  please subscribe to our mailing list by completing the form on HCAI’s subscription page.