How do hospitals decide which services are included in a code and why don't they have to disclose this?

Answer 1

Actually hospitals do not make those decisions. The guidelines for the coding and the payer makes those decisions. I do not understand the disclosure part of the question. The hospital is required to release a patient statement and the patient can request an itemized statement at any time. If you do not understand the codes, make an appointment with the billing department. If you do not like their answers, check with your insurance carrier. If you are paying cash, the facility is required to explain exactly what you are paying for.