I disagree with the new federal mandate that requires hospitals to publish standard price lists for procedures, tests, drugs and supplies (“Hospital price lists go public online,” Jan. 2, TribLIVE).
Occupational therapy (OT) is a crucial component in rehabilitation, but the upfront cost and benefits might not be clear to consumers. OT helps people get back to doing things they want and need to do. However, after seeing the hospital prices, patients might choose to forego certain services.
OT has been shown to reduce future hospitalizations and improve quality of life. So, even though the upfront cost is expensive, it can save patients money in the long run.
Lexy Zelczak
McDonald