North Dakota Assembly proposes healthcare cost transparency legislation

The North Dakota State Legislature has introduced House Bill 1594, aimed at enhancing medical cost transparency within health care facilities. Proposed on January 29, 2025, the bill seeks to mandate that licensed health care facilities publicly disclose their standard charges for various medical items and services, including those related to inpatient admissions and outpatient visits.

Key provisions of the bill require health care facilities to provide a comprehensive list of standard charges for both items and services, as well as "shoppable services," which are defined as services that patients can choose to purchase in advance. The bill aligns with federal regulations, specifically referencing Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and stipulates that the information must be presented in a format consistent with guidelines set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The introduction of House Bill 1594 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and health care advocates regarding its potential impact on patient care and financial planning. Proponents argue that increased transparency will empower patients to make informed decisions about their health care options, potentially leading to reduced costs and improved competition among providers. However, some health care facilities have expressed concerns about the administrative burden of complying with the new requirements and the potential for penalties if they fail to meet the standards set forth in the bill.

The bill's significance lies in its potential to reshape the landscape of health care pricing in North Dakota, addressing long-standing issues of cost opacity that have left many patients in the dark about their financial responsibilities. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring the bill's progress and its implications for both health care providers and consumers in the state. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments before a final vote is taken.