Not Such A Shock: Health Care Spending Highest In Northeast

The states that spend the most on health care are in the northeastern region of the United States, according to the Kaiser Network. That includes Maine, Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts — all of which are guaranteed issue states.

Insurance companies in these states are required to accept every single person who applies for health coverage regardless of health history, age, or pre-existing conditions. It"s a good thing for people who really need insurance, but it drives up health care costs for everyone.

Guaranteed issue laws also force many insurance companies out of a state because they are unable to offer competitive prices and affordable coverage options.