Oakwood is First Healthcare System in Southeast Michigan to Post Pricing Information o...(d Peltier. Transparency in healthcare...),Health

Transparency in healthcare is becoming a necessity as consumers become more and more involved in healthcare costs and needs. In today's challenging economic climate, consumers are paying more for healthcare and, as a result, are becoming more independent and involved when it comes to financing healthcare services. Dearborn-based Ford Motor Company employs approximately 300,000 employees and 108 plants worldwide. Oakwood's readily accessible pricing information will allow Ford employees to become more involved in their healthcare decisions as well.

"Ford commends Oakwood for making this type of information publicly available," said Dr. Walter Talamonti, Ford Motor Company Medical Director. "Our health plans are consumer-driven and we ask participants to be more involved in all aspects of care. They can't do that without complete information, and very few truly know what medical procedures cost. This is an important step in the right direction."

It is important to note the listed costs do not include physician and other professional fees and the actual charge of service may vary based on pre-existing health conditions, severity of illness, insurance coverage and the procedure performed. However, Oakwood feels the posting of this data is an important first step in controlling costs and achieving better health outcomes for our patients.

Oakwood is committed to frequently updating and expanding its pricing and quality information. This project is yet another example of how Oakwood is continuing its mission of providing excellent healthcare to our patients and the communities we serve.