Hospital price transparency

Hospital price transparency is a federal rule that took effect January 1, 2021. It requires hospitals to post their standard charges online in 2 ways. The first is a large file that lists every item and service. The second is an easier-to-read list of shoppable services, so you can compare prices before you get care. Updated requirements took effect April 1, 2026.

The large file shows several prices for the same service. These include the full charge, the discounted cash price, and the rate each insurer negotiated.

You can use these prices after care, too. For example, say your bill lists a test at $1,800, but the hospital's posted cash price for it is $650. That's a $1,150 gap worth asking about. Our guide on how to negotiate a hospital bill explains what to say.