New rules requiring hospital transparency may not represent real prices, but could help educate people on healthcare

Due to a new law that went into effect on Jan. 1, hospitals, including the Stephens County Memorial Hospital, have been required to release the charges of the procedures they offer.

While the move was made as an effort to help promote transparency, SMH CEO Matthew Kempton said the listed charges may not be the most reliable when it comes to determining how much you will pay.

“I believe the legislature is trying to find a market solution to drive more competitiveness …. To drive down prices,“ Kempton said. “However, those are not prices. The prices a patient pays is based on what their insurance plan is and who their insurance carrier is.”

To see the full story, check out the Jan. 30 edition of the Breckenridge American.