Indy Standard

Area legislators in Hamilton County are urging residents to utilize a new state website designed to compare health care prices and quality. The Indiana All Payer Claims Database (APCD), managed by the Indiana Department of Insurance, was established following a 2020 law aimed at enhancing transparency in health care costs.

House Speaker Todd Huston emphasized the database's potential to provide Hoosiers with insights into local providers and expected costs for services. "This new database can give Hoosiers a better understanding of what providers are nearby and an idea of what they could expect to pay for certain services," Huston stated.

State Representative Chris Jeter highlighted the APCD's features, which allow users to search payment data for common procedures across different regions, providers, and insurance plans. The tool also provides information on out-of-pocket costs and facility quality ratings. "This new resource can help consumers know their expenses upfront and the availability of care nearby before deciding whether to move forward," Jeter noted.

Representative Chuck Goodrich outlined the database's objectives, including informing patients, identifying state health care needs, supporting policy development, and improving health care quality and affordability. "This online database is a significant step forward to creating more transparency in Indiana's health care system," he said.

The APCD complies with federal security standards as per State Rep. Donna Schaibley, who sponsored the 2020 law. Schaibley mentioned that Onpoint Health Data administers the APCD under HITRUST certification. "With many still struggling to access affordable health care, this new online tool can help Hoosiers make more informed decisions," she remarked.

State Rep. Jerry Torr added that the database enhances transparency by allowing comparisons of treatment costs and provider options. Residents can visit apcd.idoi.in.gov for further details or send inquiries via email at apcd@idoi.in.gov.