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Common Post-Launch All Payer Claims Database Questions

As many of you are aware, Colorado’s All Payer Claims Database went live on November 1st at www.cohealthdata.org. The initial response has been very positive and the APCD has enjoyed extensive press coverage both locally and nationally. Along with the initial flurry of website activity and news coverage we've received some common questions which are answered below. For the complete list of APCD Frequently Asked Questions, click here.

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Accessing the Power of Colorado's All Payer Claims Database

A recent Denver Post article highlighted findings from a Dartmouth Institute study that found significant variation in the percent of Medicare patients undergoing costly invasive treatments versus non-invasive lower cost procedures for similar diagnoses. Those that received costly surgical and invasive procedures for the same diagnosis didn’t necessarily have the best health outcomes. In many cases, the evidence suggests that patients can realize better outcomes from less intensive treatments including rest, physical therapy and other alternatives. This study provides a great example of the type of analysis that is possible using Colorado’s All Payer Claims Database (APCD) and highlights just a few of many possible examples.

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A Solid Foundation Helps Meet a Health Data Challenge

Developing an information resource as complex as the Colorado All Payer Claims Database is a difficult and challenging undertaking. Although sophisticated technology is available, creating a functional database from complex claims information submitted by multiple payers and spanning several years is no easy task. The reality is that even the large and well established health payers face challenges in synthesizing and making sense of their own claims data.

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Shedding Some Much Needed Light on the Health Care Market

As an economist, I understand all too well that there can be no meaningful and well-functioning market without accessible and actionable information to inform consumer choices. Health care is no exception, yet we currently have very few places to turn for data that helps us make educated purchasing decisions that drive value into the system. Fortunately this situation is beginning to be addressed nationally through Health Care Cost Institute’s (HCCI) national claims database and CIVHC’s more robust Colorado All Payer Claims Database (APCD).

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