Charbonneau: Database ushers in new era of health care transparency in Indiana

Database ushers in new era of health care transparency in Indiana

By State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso), chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Provider Services

On Aug. 5, Indiana took a significant step forward in health care transparency with the launch of the Indiana All-Payer Claims Database (APCD).

Established through a 2020 law I authored and overseen by the Indiana Department of Insurance, the APCD gathers comprehensive data, including prices for medical procedures and prescription medications, from public and private insurers across the state.

This data is aggregated into a public-facing online tool to help users compare quality and prices of health care providers, insurers, hospitals and pharmacies. Although it was launched under a month ago, Indiana’s APCD is already drawing national attention.

A few highlights include the ability to compare prices for:

• Medical procedures and imaging such as an X-ray. Users simply select a procedure, health insurance plan name, zip code and the distance from the zip code that they wish to explore to view comparable prices and quality among providers.
• Office visits and labs such as a yearly check-up with a primary care provider.
• Medical procedures or prescription medications by selecting from a list or by typing the name of what one is looking for to provide pricing information by Commercial (aggregated private insurance), Medicare and Medicaid categories.

This level of transparency and access to data is crucial for fostering a more equitable and efficient health care system in Indiana. I have noted in the past that consumers with insurance tend to go to the closest facility or provider, regardless of affordability or quality. This tool aims to change that mindset by making this information easily accessible, giving consumers the control and confidence to make better decisions about how they are accessing health care. This informed decision-making is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing costs.

While consumers were the primary focus during the APCD's development, it is set to significantly impact a wide range of stakeholders within Indiana's health care ecosystem. For example, hospitals and providers can use the data to benchmark performance and identify areas for improvement.

Similarly, researchers can use the data to study health care trends, outcomes and disparities, leading to breakthroughs in understanding the effectiveness and impact of health care policies.

Employers can also use the data to make more informed decisions about the health care benefits they offer to their employees. By analyzing cost and quality data, they can negotiate better rates with providers, design more effective health plans and deliver cost-effective, high-quality benefits.

Policymakers can use the data to craft informed policies aimed at improving health care quality, reducing costs and addressing disparities in health care access.

By working together and holding each other accountable, we can move one step closer to a health care system that truly serves the needs of all Hoosiers.

The launch of the APCD represents a significant step forward in Indiana’s commitment to transparency, equity, and quality in health care. I strongly encourage everyone across the state to utilize this powerful tool and explore their health care options and prices. I am optimistic about the potential positive impact this will have on our health care marketplace and remain dedicated to supporting initiatives like this that enhance transparency, access and affordability in our great state.

To access the Indiana APCD, visit www.apcd.idoi.in.gov.

Visit my website at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Charbonneau or call me at 317-232-9400 to contact me with questions or comments.

-30-

State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso) represents Senate District 5,
which includes Pulaski and White counties and portions of Jasper and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.