Across most industries, consumers can compare prices before making a purchase, but when it comes to health care, patients are often left in the dark about the cost. Consumers deserve to know how much services cost before billing, especially for services as important as health care.
Price transparency is essential for families to be able to compare health care options and plan for the costs of treatment.
 
For these reasons, I plan to introduce legislation that would require all medical offices to make price information on their most frequently provided items and services available to patients and publish it online. This legislation would also enforce federal price transparency regulations for hospitals, as only about 40% of Pennsylvania hospitals currently comply with these rules, and extend price transparency requirements to medical services offices as well.
 
Without price transparency, there is a lack of competition in the health care system and consumer choice to shop for services. Especially with increasing consolidation in the health care market, it is important to give power back to the consumer, ensuring that families can access information regarding health care costs and make informed decisions when seeking care.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation to enable all Pennsylvanians to better prepare for their health care expenses.