Cost of treating Connecticut uninsured up 40% since 2005

The cost of hospital stays for Connecticut patients without insurance has increased more than 40% since 2005, even though the number of uninsured people seeking hospital care declined in fiscal year 2008, according to a report from the state Office of Health Care Access. The cost of providing hospital care for the uninsured increased to $239 million in fiscal year 2008, up 44% from $165 million in fiscal year 2005. Even with fewer uninsured, costs rose because hospital charges are increasing, typically 6% or more a year.