Bill > S897

This bill aims to enhance hospital price transparency by requiring hospitals to provide clear and accessible pricing information to patients. Specifically, hospitals must publish a machine-readable file on their website listing standard charges for all items and services, using definitions from federal regulations (45 C.F.R. § 180.20). For patients scheduling elective procedures, tests, or services, hospitals must now provide a cost estimate upon request made at least three days in advance. Hospitals must also post written information about patients' rights to request these estimates in public areas and on their websites. The state's health department will develop regulations to implement these requirements, and any violations will be treated as unfair and deceptive practices under Massachusetts consumer protection law. This means the attorney general can take legal action to enforce the transparency rules, potentially seeking restitution, civil penalties, and other remedies. The bill is designed to help patients better understand and anticipate their medical costs before receiving treatment, promoting greater financial transparency in healthcare.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S897