Des Moines’ hospital systems are complying with new federal rules that require them to post estimated costs for medical procedures, but the results are far from enlightening, writes David Lind in his blog on health care costs. Beginning Jan. 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service is attempting to force price transparency by requiring all hospitals to post their list prices online, Lind writes. Under this arrangement, hospitals are required to publish a list of their standard charges online in a “machine-readable” format and to update this information at least annually. Hospitals are currently required to make this information publicly available or available upon request. After test-driving the portals developed by UnityPoint Health and Mercy, Lind writes: “Trying to determine hospital prices in advance of a test, procedure or stay is daunting, frustrating and futile. This new hospital ‘transparency’ requirement is a very small step that needs a rocket boost into the 21st century.” But he has some suggestions for improvements. Read his blog here.