Which of the following is a major factor that has contributed to the rapid rise in health care costs in recent decades?

• A. Lower administrative expenses
• B. Decreased demand for health care services
• C. Reduction in chronic diseases
• D. Advancements in medical technology

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: It asks for a major factor contributing to the rapid rise in health care costs over recent decades.
2. Review each option carefully and analyze its likely impact on health care costs. For example, 'Lower administrative expenses' would typically reduce costs, not increase them.
3. Consider the role of 'Decreased demand for health care services'—if demand decreases, costs would generally not rise rapidly.
4. Think about 'Reduction in chronic diseases'—fewer chronic diseases would likely reduce health care costs rather than increase them.
5. Recognize that 'Advancements in medical technology' often lead to higher costs because new technologies can be expensive to develop, implement, and use, thus driving up overall health care spending.