A price estimator tool and a machine-readable file (MRF) are different requirements. CMS requires both under 45 CFR 180.50: a consumer-facing estimator AND a machine-readable file with negotiated rates. Publishing only an estimator is a common — and finable — misunderstanding.
| Purpose | Consumer-facing price estimates | Raw data for researchers, payers, CMS crawlers |
| Format | Web tool / widget | JSON or CSV, publicly accessible, no login |
| Content | Estimated out-of-pocket cost for common services | Payer-specific negotiated rates, cash prices, 70 shoppable services |
| Required? | Yes — shoppable services via online tool | Yes — the MRF itself |
If your hospital built a great estimator but skipped the machine-readable file, you are not compliant. CMS's automated crawler specifically checks for the MRF — it does not grade your estimator. The good news: the MRF is a mechanical fix, and the first step is a free check to see exactly what's missing.
Free 24-hour risk check. You keep the report either way.
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