A private-equity-backed firm has helped drive down payments to medical providers, drive up patients’ bills and earn billions for insurers.
Category: Prices (Fares, Fees and Rates)
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Insurance Companies Reap Hidden Fees as Patients Get Unexpected Bills
A little-known data firm helps health insurers make more when less of an out-of-network claim gets paid. Patients can be on the hook for the difference.
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In Battle Over Health Care Costs, Private Equity Plays Both Sides
As medical practices owned by private equity firms fuel overbilling, a payment tool also backed by such investors helps insurers boost their profits.
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Consumers Hate ‘Price Discrimination,’ but They Sure Love a Discount
The Wendy’s debacle is a warning shot for brands: If you want to play with prices, make sure to communicate why and whom it could help.
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New Questions on How a Key Agency Shared Inflation Data
A government economist had regular contact with “super users” in finance, records show, at a time when such information keenly interests investors.
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How to Claim Your Part of a $45 Million Walmart Settlement
A class-action lawsuit accusing the retail giant of inflating prices of certain weighed foods and produce resulted in a settlement. Customers may be eligible for a payment of up to $500.
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Some Colleges Will Soon Charge $100,000 a Year. How Did This Happen?
Some Vanderbilt students will have $100,000 in total expenses for the 2024-25 school year. The school doesn’t really want to talk about it.
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Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers
Are you a flexible traveler? Holland America’s standby cruises may be for you. The cost: $49 a day, excluding fees, taxes and extras. The catch: It might be a hair-raising, last-minute scramble.
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Eclipse’s Path Is Also Leaving a Trail of High Hotel Prices
One Super 8 in Illinois advertised $949 a night. Its normal rate is $95.
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Japan Airlines Downgraded Our First Class Seats and Skimped on the Refund
A couple is bumped from ultraluxury to semi-luxury on a trans-Pacific flight and receives what they feel is only a pittance in compensation.
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Fed Chair Powell Wants Inflation to Cool More
Jerome H. Powell, the Federal Reserve chair, said officials can take their time cutting rates. He also underscored the Fed’s independence as election season heats up.