Maine legislators discussed a proposal, "Right to Shop," which ensures medical patients have the right to understand their pricing options for various healthcare procedures prior to payment, according to WCSH 6.
Here are five takeaways:
1. Proponents of the bill claim healthcare professionals often do not consider the financial strain hospital bills place on patients.
2. Those in favor say the bill will empower the consumer by giving more information about their purchase.
3. The legislation would require payers to have 24-hour hotlines and readily accessible online pricing options.
4. Jack Forbush, DO, owner of the Osteopathic Center for Family Medicine in Hamden, said healthcare pricing is not consistent and many consumers are confused about pricing.
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