LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Coldwater, issued the following statement in response to the state Senate unanimously approving his legislation aimed at improving transparency surrounding medical costs in Michigan:
“Health care needs an overhaul, and people deserve better than what they are currently getting. People are paying a premium and, in turn, often face significant difficulty getting the care they and their families deserve.
“Pricing transparency is critical to empowering patients and tackling out-of-control costs. Simply put: People deserve to know what they are being charged for. This information is essential when it comes to making the best decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
“No one should receive a surprise bill that leaves them with significant burden, and in some cases, financial ruin. Prices for medical procedures, medications and services should be available to patients, including thorough and easy-to-understand explanations of potential charges, with no hidden fees or surprise costs.
“When access to price information is readily available, and patients can compare rates and services like they do with most products, health care providers will be incentivized to offer competitive pricing and improve the efficiency of their services. My legislation would help people make better, more informed decisions and will benefit all patients by providing more affordable options.
“This has been a top priority of mine since being elected. I’m glad to see my colleagues in the Legislature recognize the importance of this issue and that my legislation was able to garner support from the full Senate. I look forward to the House acting swiftly to pass this legislation, and I urge their full support.”
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