OLYMPIA – The Washington All-Payer Claims Database (APCD) will be more user friendly thanks to HB 1382. Sponsored by Rep. Steve Tharinger (D-Port Townsend), the bill removes the exemption for “proprietary financial information” and aligns it with Federal Rules to create more transparency.
“The APCD is a tool for both private and public payers,” said Rep. Tharinger. “The data collected helps to find areas of cost savings and make sure healthcare policy is working for consumers. Making it more transparent and easier to use is a big win for the people of Washington.”
The bill was a priority for new Health Care & Wellness Committee Chair Rep. Dan Bronoske (D-Lakewood) who aimed to increase transparency and lower costs in his first session helming the committee.
“This type of policy is exactly what I mean when I say it’s my job to move good bills forward,” said Rep. Bronoske. “This is going to assist patients, providers, hospitals and health care purchasers in making informed choices about care and coverage. Ultimately, it’s going to bring down costs and improve access.”