Guides ยท Last reviewed October 28, 2026
Hospital price transparency: what hospitals must post and how to use it
Federal rules require hospitals to publish their prices online. CMS says hospitals must post a machine-readable file with all items and services and a display of shoppable services in a consumer-friendly format.
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What hospitals must post
- Machine-readable file: a comprehensive file with all items and services, built for computers. It's useful for researchers and price-comparison tools but hard to read yourself.
- Shoppable services display: a consumer-friendly list of services patients can compare and price.
The requirements began January 1, 2021. CMS says enforcement of the updated requirements from the CY 2026 OPPS and ASC final rule begins April 1, 2026.
How to use the prices
- Search the hospital's website for "price transparency", "standard charges", or "shoppable services".
- Find your service in the shoppable display, or use a price-comparison tool built on the machine-readable files.
- Ask the billing office for an estimate tied to your insurance plan. A posted price list is not a quote for your care.
- If you're uninsured or self-pay, ask for a Good Faith Estimate. See how to dispute a bill higher than your Good Faith Estimate.
If a hospital hasn't posted prices
CMS says you can submit a complaint if it appears a hospital has not posted information online. CMS audits a sample of hospitals and investigates complaints, and noncompliant hospitals may face civil monetary penalties. For other questions, CMS lists the email address PriceTransparencyHospitalCharges@cms.hhs.gov.
Already got a bill?
Posted prices don't change what you owe on a bill you already received, but they can help you check it. Start with an itemized bill and ask about financial assistance.
Common questions
What two things must hospitals post?
CMS says a machine-readable file with all items and services, and a display of shoppable services in a consumer-friendly format.
How do I report a hospital that hasn't posted prices?
Submit a complaint to CMS through its hospital price transparency page. CMS investigates complaints and noncompliant hospitals may face civil monetary penalties.
Is a posted price what I'll pay?
Not necessarily. Your cost depends on your insurance and the care you receive, so ask the hospital for an estimate before a planned service.
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Sources
CMS page last modified September 16, 2026. Billmira is a self-help information tool, not a law firm, and this isn't legal, tax, or medical advice. Rules change and plans differ; check the official sources above and your own documents.