WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Health Care Cost Transparency Bill signed by governor

All Payers Claims Database bill signing with Governor Inslee and Representative Cody
Rep. Eileen Cody shaking hands with Governor Jay Inslee at signing of SB 5084 the All Payers Claims Database with bipartisan group of legislators.

OLYMPIA – Most people have no idea if the prices they pay for their health care are fair. Entering a hospital, medical examinations and procedures aren’t listed on the wall with a price tag. Finding out what you owe usually comes after receiving a bill, often after insurance has denied the claim despite the consumer having proper insurance coverage.

Patients need to know the upfront costs they’ll face when they are provided with care. With more access to care comes less reliance in the health care industry on premium heavy payment systems in favor of plans based on copays and cost-sharing.

This year, Rep. Eileen Cody, D-West Seattle, and Sen. Randi Becker, R-Eatonville, introduced legislation to improve the All Payer Health Care Claims Database, at the request of Governor Jay Inslee. Today, in a ceremony in Olympia, the governor signed SB 5084, Sen. Becker’s bill.

“By passing this legislation, we’re taking another important step in improving consumer access to knowledge about their health care costs,” said Rep. Cody. “We’re moving forward, allowing people to know just how much their care will impact their wallet, and giving them the opportunity to compare health care facilities. The goal is to create competition in the industry, by empowering consumers with knowledge. Access to information is key to making important decisions about our health.”

Washington’s current all payer health care claims database doesn’t offer a clear picture of how costs compare across different facilities and providers. The legislation offered by Rep. Cody and Sen. Becker increases the effectiveness of the database by requiring insurers to submit claims, including the cost of procedures and services, and any data that is billed, allowed, and paid to providers. The new statewide all payer claims database will assist patients, providers, and hospitals in making informed decisions about the care they choose to pursue, allow employers to identify the most valuable plans for their employees, and increase competition among providers.

“As a health care provider, I don’t have the ability to tell my patients what their procedures will cost. This is a first step towards allowing patients to access that information. Giving patients peace of mind that they’re receiving quality care at a fair price is important to me,” Cody added.