Clinical worker talking with male patient

Paying for Your Stay

Pennsylvania hospitals believe that patients and their families should have as much information as they can get to make the best decisions about their care and to be protected from the financial burdens of unexpected medical bills.

Though insurers are in the best position to help patients understand what is considered in network or out of network, everyone providing health care services has a role to play in helping consumers navigate the complicated health care delivery system.

Hospitals are working to help patients understand their financial responsibility by:

  • Offering a special help-line number for billing/pricing questions
  • Having patient advocates and financial counselors on-hand to meet with families in person or via telephone call
  • Providing cost estimator tools to estimate out-of-pocket costs
  • Holding educational sessions about paying for hospital services

Patients also can use the price estimators and provider network information at health plan websites and talk to their provider about quality, value, and cost treatment options.



HAP News


September 25, 2026

Caring for the Commonwealth: UPMC

HAP’s Caring for the Commonwealth series showcases the innovative programs led by Pennsylvania hospitals and health systems—and, most importantly, the difference they make for communities. The series brings these stories to life, highlighting how our members are improving health and creating stronger, healthier communities.

September 24, 2026

CMS Removes 760k from ACA Plans

CMS this week announced it is removing 760,000 people from Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans across the U.S.

September 22, 2026

What to Know: PID Releases 2027 Insurance Rates

Pennie individual insurance premiums will increase nearly 16 percent for 2027 as federal health policy changes lead to more uncompensated care, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) announced this month.

+