<p>Rising healthcare costs are an ongoing concern for employers, insurers, patients and governmental agencies in the USA. In 2012, healthcare spending increased by 3.7% to approximately $2.8 trillion. Of this, $882.3 billion was attributed to hospitals. Growth in spending from Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance providers all accelerated in 2012 compared to 2011, influenced by growth in both prices and non-price factors including the use and intensity of services.</p>