New rules the Trump administration issued Friday would require insurers and hospitals to disclose upfront the actual prices for common tests and procedures to promote competition and push down costs.
Speaking at a White House event, President Trump skipped over potential difficulties, at times making it sound like openness in healthcare pricing was a done deal.“After many years, we will have transparency,” Trump said. “Within about 12 months I think it will be fully implemented.” He predicted “a tremendous impact on prices.”
“American patients have been at the mercy of a shadowy system with little access to the information they need to make decisions about their own care,” Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said, pointing out that many hospital procedures are scheduled in advance, and that gives patients a chance to shop around.
Insurers also contend the plan could backfire, prompting relatively low-cost providers to try to raise their prices when they see that others are getting more.
Arms - 'Basement the back door' Legs - 'Rooftop, bring ladder' Hearts - 'Surgery Center, show SAG Card' Kidneys - 'East and West Wing near the window' Liver - 'We don't carry those anymore, try the pub' Hands & Feet - 'Kiddie Table, Thanksgiving is right around the corner'
no quid pro quo for tests and procedures