Virginia Health Information Publishes Health Care Pricing Report

~New, Expanded Report Provides Information for Consumers to Negotiate Lower Costs with Providers~

RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- It's no secret, health care costs continue to rise across the U.S. But Virginians now have more information to arm themselves to negotiate costs for health care services. Virginia Health Information today released its Health Care Pricing Report found at www.vhi.org/healthcareprices that reveals the average allowed amount insurers pay for services such as doctor visits, baby deliveries, mammograms and CT scans.

"In the past, VHI's health care pricing report has been a great resource for Virginians as we're among a handful of few states that publish this information," said Michael Lundberg, Executive Director of VHI. "What's unique this year is that with the help of health insurance companies, consumers can see more detailed pricing information about specific health care procedures. The new information includes variations in price by where the procedure takes place and a breakdown of possible charges for facility, surgeon, anesthesiologist, radiologist, physician and other charges. This information can help consumers better understand what they may pay and to negotiate lower prices for care."

Previously titled the Transparency Report, VHI has published its Health Care Pricing Report since 2009 to show the average allowed amount by insurance carriers.

This information can greatly benefit:

• consumers without health care insurance,
• those participating in health savings accounts,
• consumers with high deductible plans or
• anyone wanting a better idea of what their out-of-pocket costs may be for medical tests or procedures.

"We now have a better idea of how health care prices vary among the different types of facilities," said Lundberg. "For example, a consumer can compare prices for a breast biopsy performed at a physician's office, hospital or ambulatory surgical center. The consumer can then discuss the best care option with their doctor." 

To find the latest updates on health care data and statistics, find and like VHI on Facebook at www.facebook.com\vahealth.

Press Contact:
Virginia Health Information
Michael T. Lundberg, Executive Director
Phone: 804-644-7026
Toll Free: 1-877-VHI-INFO
Web Site: www.vhi.org

SOURCE Virginia Health Information

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