What is the primary purpose of the HFMA task force formed in 2014?

The primary purpose of the HFMA task force formed in 2014 was to develop principles for price transparency in healthcare. This initiative was driven by a growing need for patients to have access to clear and understandable pricing information regarding their healthcare services. Price transparency aims to help patients make informed decisions about their care and to encourage competition among providers, ultimately leading to better quality and lower costs in the healthcare system. This effort aligns with broader healthcare trends emphasizing consumer empowerment and the importance of accessible pricing information.

The context for this task force's formation includes increasing public awareness and demand for transparency in healthcare costs. By establishing clear principles, the HFMA task force sought to address the complexities and inconsistencies that existed in the pricing of healthcare services, thereby promoting fairness and accountability among providers.

The other options, while related to healthcare management, do not accurately reflect the main focus of the 2014 HFMA task force. They highlight areas such as healthcare policy, patient guidelines, and financial audits, none of which align with the task force's specific goal of enhancing price transparency.