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Editor's note: This article is the first of a two-part series. ext month, we'll discuss a cost-based approach to pricing and strategic pricing to protect future revenues. Hospitals are feeling growing pressure from various groups to publish pricing and validate quality and value. At both state and federal levels, some regulatory bodies require consumer reporting, according to the recent HCPro audioconference "Pricing Transparency: Strategies to identify true cost and remain competitive in a consumer-driven market." Also, patients are now demanding more economic accountability. The advent of health savings accounts has played a role in the push for transparency.