(April 28, 2026) - The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means held a hearing today featuring chief executive officers of health systems to examine the drivers of rising health care costs and the financial pressures facing providers. Lawmakers focused heavily on affordability, with discussion centered on price transparency, site-neutral payment policies, the role of pharmacy benefit managers and Medicare Advantage plans.
Hospital leaders emphasized the widening gap between rising expenses and reimbursement, citing ongoing workforce shortages, higher labor and drug costs and administrative complexity, particularly related to insurer prior authorization and claim denials. The panel of CEOs underscored the need to preserve access to care, especially in rural and underserved communities, while cautioning against policies that could unintentionally shift costs or reduce essential services.
Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS) delivered remarks and asked questions during the hearing, where he complimented hospitals in his district for investing in the local community. He expressed interest in site-neutral payment policies to help seniors avoid higher out-of-pocket costs depending on the facility where they receive care, and he shared concern over consolidation nationwide.
The hearing underscores continued congressional interest in policies to lower costs across the health care system, with hospitals encouraging a balanced approach that addresses underlying cost drivers while maintaining access to high-quality care. The Kansas Hospital Association will continue to advocate for policies that advance both goals and engage with policymakers as these discussions evolve.