The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, or CMS now requires all U.S. hospitals to create a comprehensive machine-readable file with all items of service and display shoppable services in a consumer-friendly format.
CMS is the entity that conducts the audits to ensure hospitals are adhering to the new regulations. A spokesperson said as of April of 2021 they have begun sending warning letters to hospitals that are not abiding by the new rules.
“Upon receipt of a warning letter for noncompliance, hospitals have 90 days to address the findings cited in the warning letter. CMS will re-review upon expiration of the 90-day window, or earlier if a hospital alerts CMS that the finding(s) of noncompliance has been addressed. Based on re-review findings, the inquiry may be closed if the finding(s) is resolved, the hospital may be sent a second warning letter, or the hospital may be sent a request for a corrective action plan,” CMS spokesperson.
If a hospital does not comply within the 90-day period they could be fined $300 a day.
Lance Green, Lakeland Regional Health’s executive vice president and chief financial officer, provided this response:
“Lakeland Regional Health is committed to providing price transparency for our patients and families. The price estimator tool that is accessible on our website allows consumers to shop for a large number of hospital services to determine estimated out-of-pocket costs based on their specific health insurance plan benefits. We are fully aware of the CMS requirements that went into effect on January 1 of this year and have made good faith efforts to comply with CMS regulations and will continue to monitor and adjust price transparency disclosures as needed.”