require Health Care Providers to give patients an estimate of their charges prior to performing procedures and tests.

Cost is a part of the equation in making medical decisions for ourselves. Patients should not be surprised by huge medical bills because they did what their doctors told them to do. We all need to know what these services are going to cost and how much of it our insurance will cover. Even after insurance companies pre-approve procedures and tests, they can change their decision and refuse to pay for all types of reasons, and the patient ends up in debt. How can consumers shop for lower cost solutions without being able to compare costs when making a decision. Hospitals, doctors and other providers need to compete for our business. Competition drives excellence and cost consciousness. I want to know how much it is going to cost me, BEFOREHAND, and if I can get it done cheaper elsewhere.