Consumers
The Center for the Study of Services (CSS) was founded in 1974 as a nonprofit focused on delivering consumers reliable information on local services and healthcare professionals. We have measured and improved consumers' experiences in health care in many ways, from survey research to mystery shopping to comprehensive data management and analysis to advice articles for consumers about navigating the healthcare system.
Helping Consumers
Find Local Services
Since 1976, Consumers' Checkbook has been empowering individuals to make better-informed decisions. Currently available in seven metropolitan areas—Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington D.C.—Checkbook offers comprehensive quality and pricing ratings, along with expert advice on local services and healthcare professionals. Committed to remaining unbiased, we operate independently of the businesses we evaluate and report on.
Helping Consumers
Choose Health Plans
Starting in 1979, Checkbook has published the Guide to Health Plans for Federal Employees, offering federal employees and annuitants detailed yearly cost estimates to help them choose the best-value FEHB plans. In 2013, Checkbook introduced its first marketplace plan comparison tool and has since partnered with more than a dozen states to assist residents in evaluating and selecting the health plan that best meets their needs. Learn more at Checkbook Health.