COLUMBUS, Ohio — A new law aimed at reshaping Ohio’s healthcare landscape officially took effect Thursday, giving patients unprecedented access to the cost of medical services. The Hospital Price Transparency Act, championed by State Representatives Ron Ferguson (R-Wintersville) and Tim Barhorst (R-Fort Loramie), requires all Ohio hospitals to publicly post clear and standardized pricing for their services.
The legislation, which passed unanimously in the General Assembly, marks a significant shift toward greater accountability in healthcare billing across the state.
“This law will empower Ohioans with clear, up-front information about the costs of medical care,” Ferguson said at a press conference. “It’s about helping patients make informed decisions, shop for affordable options, and avoid surprise bills that can devastate families.”
Barhorst emphasized the law’s impact on market dynamics: “This bill is going to establish a true free market in healthcare. It allows patients and employer-sponsored plans to partner together for transparency and quality, which will ultimately lead to better health outcomes for Ohioans.”
Under the new law, hospitals must list prices for all available services, making it easier for consumers to compare costs and seek more affordable care. The Ohio Department of Health is also mandated to monitor compliance. The first noncompliance report is due by July 2, with updates released every 30 days. Hospitals that fail to comply face financial penalties, with fines scaled according to the hospital’s bed count.
“The hospital lobby really did not want to see this pass,” Ferguson said. “It took a long, hard fight from a lot of people to get it done — but we persevered.”
Supporters of the law argue that by encouraging transparency, the state is also encouraging competition among hospitals — a move that could drive down costs for patients over time.
With the Hospital Price Transparency Act now in effect, Ohioans gain a powerful new tool in managing their healthcare — one that puts knowledge and control directly into the hands of patients.
