Nick Budnick, The Oregonian – May 08, 2013
For the first time, the federal government released Wednesday what hospitals nationwide charge for common procedures. The move is designed to pressure health systems as major changes in health care roll out over the next year.

The numbers shed light on the confusing world of hospital billing and the major disparities in charging for the same procedures between hospitals and regions across the country.

The federal government is providing funding for institutions to publish new analysis of health pricing and medical claims reimbursements, to further educate consumers about insurer and hospital pricing.

In the meantime, officials are encouraging members of the public and reporters to examine the charges and question hospitals about them.

Read the full story on OregonLive.com