Madison, WI – Today, Senator Julian Bradley (R–New Berlin), Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R–Tomahawk), and Representative Robert Wittke (R–Caledonia) introduced Price Transparency for Patients: legislation to empower patients and reduce healthcare costs through healthcare price transparency.
“Imagine waking up with sudden pain, but you’re scared to go to the doctor because the unknown cost could financially ruin you,” said Senator Bradley. “Our bill aims to end that uncertainty. Patients deserve to see upfront prices clearly, enabling them to make informed choices about their healthcare.”
Wisconsin has the 5th highest hospital costs in the nation, and the highest in the Midwest. In 2019, the Trump Administration issued an executive order requiring hospital price transparency. A federal rule went into effect in 2021 despite a legal challenge by the American Hospital Association. Unfortunately, many hospitals in Wisconsin are still not fully in compliance.
“We can’t wait for Washington to solve this problem- Wisconsin needs to lead the way,” said Senator Felzkowski. “According to the nonpartisan PatientRightsAdvocate.org, only 30% of hospitals in Wisconsin are fully in compliance with the federal rule. This is unacceptable – we owe it to our constituents to act.”
“Between 1999 and 2022, the national average annual cost of an employer-sponsored family health plan has increased from $5,791 to $22,463,” said Representative Wittke. “Healthcare is one of the main costs that businesses face, and high costs impact their ability to hire and grow. Transparency drives competition, which will reduce costs for patients and businesses.”
The lawmakers also unveiled TheHospitalBill.com, a new resource designed to engage and inform Wisconsinites. The website offers a clear explanation of the bill’s benefits, and allows visitors to take action by signing a petition demonstrating their support.
