State Rep. Jerry Knowles (R-124 District) announced the launching of a consumer friendly, interactive, computer database by the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4). The internet accessible database is related to Medicare payments for common health care services and was created as a way to aid consumers interetsed in making more informed health care choices.

For every Pennsylvania county, the database makes information available on the amount Medicare pays hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers for outpatient procedures, such as colonoscopies, cataract removal and MRIs. It will also assist consumers in fee negotiations and in finding quality health care in their area for the best price.The database is accessible at

www.RepKnowles.com, click on 'Medicare Payment Database."