Medical care is expensive, especially in Massachusetts, where the cost of care is the most expensive in the country! We spend $7,075 per resident every year on health care in Massachusetts, compared to the national average of $5,313. Yet, despite the continued growth in health care spending, the quality of care varies widely. To address these issues, the Coalition for Affordable Health Care held a series of forums across the state, including one at White's Restaurant in Westport on May 8, 2008. The program was introduced by Peter Kortright of the Greater Fall River Chamber of Commerce and Dr. Marylou Buyse, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Association of Healthcare Plans and included presentations by Charlie Baker, President and CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Eileen McAnneny of the Associated Industries of Massachusetts. For further information about the forum series, contact the Coalition for Affordable Health Care at 617-259-2780.