Summary of Bill S 2355: Hospital and Insurer Price Transparency

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 2355

Title: A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for hospital and insurer price transparency.

Status: Introduced in Senate

Introduced On: July 17, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of Bill S 2355 is to enhance price transparency in the healthcare sector by amending the Public Health Service Act. The bill seeks to ensure that patients have access to clear and understandable information regarding the costs of hospital services and insurance coverage. By promoting transparency, the bill intends to empower consumers to make informed decisions about their healthcare options and potentially reduce overall healthcare costs.

Key Provisions

• Price Disclosure Requirements: The bill mandates that hospitals and insurers disclose their pricing information for services and procedures. This includes:

  • Standardized formats for presenting pricing data.
  • Clear explanations of what is included in the pricing (e.g., facility fees, professional fees).

• Consumer Access: It requires that this pricing information be readily accessible to consumers, potentially through online platforms or mobile applications.

• Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill outlines penalties for non-compliance by hospitals and insurers, ensuring that there are consequences for failing to provide the required transparency.

• Reporting and Accountability: Hospitals and insurers may be required to submit regular reports to a designated federal agency to demonstrate compliance with the transparency requirements.

Affected Parties

• Patients and Consumers: The bill is designed to benefit patients by providing them with clearer information about healthcare costs, enabling them to compare prices and make more informed choices.

• Hospitals and Insurers: These entities will be required to adjust their practices to comply with the new transparency standards, which may involve additional administrative work and potential costs.

• Healthcare Providers: The bill may impact how healthcare providers negotiate prices and interact with insurers, as transparency could lead to more competitive pricing.

Procedural Aspects

• Legislative Actions:

  • On July 17, 2025, the bill was read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for further consideration.

• Sponsorship: The bill is sponsored by Senator Roger Marshall, with cosponsors including Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst, Maggie Hassan, Tim Sheehy, and John W. Hickenlooper, indicating bipartisan support for the initiative.

Conclusion

Bill S 2355 represents a significant step towards improving price transparency in the healthcare system. By mandating that hospitals and insurers disclose their pricing information, the bill aims to empower consumers and foster a more competitive healthcare market. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for patients, providers, and insurers will be closely monitored.