Data Analysis Finds Rise in Average Expenditures for Prescription Medications

A new AHRQ data analysis found that the average total amount spent on prescription medications for people who had at least one outpatient prescription drug filled has risen considerably in recent years. The data, published today in Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Statistical Brief #522: Trends in Prescribed Medication Expenditures by Age and Type of Prescription Drug Coverage, 2009 to 2016, show that in 2016, people who obtained at least one outpatient prescription medication spent on average $1,955—31 percent higher than in 2009, when the average was $1,497. Access the statistical brief for details and additional data points.