Indy Standard

State Representatives Wendy McNamara and Tim O'Brien have announced the launch of a new online tool designed to help Indiana residents compare health care prices and quality. This initiative stems from a 2020 law that established the Indiana All Payer Claims Database (APCD), managed by the Indiana Department of Insurance, aiming to enhance transparency in health care costs.

The APCD collects insurance claims data from both public and private health care payers, providing insights into the cost, utilization, and quality of health care services across Indiana. "This dashboard allows Hoosiers to get answers on quality and pricing for common medical procedures across the state," McNamara stated. She emphasized that constituents can now make more informed decisions regarding their health care options.

The database enables users to search for information on what other patients have paid for common procedures based on region, provider, and insurance plan. It also includes details about providers within certain distances from a specified zip code, average out-of-pocket costs for services, and facility quality ratings. For instance, individuals needing a knee replacement can input their insurance details, procedure type, and zip code to find relevant information about nearby providers.

O'Brien highlighted the broader utility of this tool beyond consumer use: "Not only does this website provide helpful information for consumers, but it will also be useful for researchers and policymakers." The database is intended to inform medical care seekers in Indiana, identify state health care needs, support policy development, and improve overall quality and affordability.

Data collected by the APCD adheres to security standards set by HIPAA as well as the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act. Onpoint Health Data administers the database with certification from HITRUST—a recognized standard in health data security—ensuring compliance with both federal and state requirements.

Indiana residents can access this resource at apcd.idoi.in.gov to compare prices and quality or submit questions via email at apcd@idoi.in.gov.