Answers to common questions about all-payer claims databases (APCDs) and the APCD Council. For questions about the APCD-CDL™, see the APCD-CDL FAQs.
What are all-payer claims databases (APCDs)?
APCDs are large-scale databases that systematically collect healthcare claims data from a variety of payer sources, including claims from most healthcare providers.
How do I find an APCD in my area?
Our interactive state map provides information about APCDs across the U.S. Select a state to see information about that state's APCD.
Does the APCD Council collect data? How can I get state APCD data for my own analysis?
The APCD Council does not collect state claims data. Each state that allows public release of its claims data has its own data release policy and process. Many states release data to qualified users, and some states have public use files that are released more freely.
Visit our APCD Data Release and Access page, or contact each state directly, to learn more about accessing a state's claims data.
Who has access to the data once an APCD is created?
The agency responsible for the APCD (for example, the insurance department or health department) oversees report production and controls access to the data according to well-defined data release policies and procedures. These policies and procedures protect privacy and prevent unauthorized use. Agency staff ensure compliance with data access policies and work with vendors and others to make sure websites and reports comply as well. Typically, a multi-stakeholder committee manages data release requests.
States with data release processes are listed on our APCD Data Release and Access page.
What is the process for developing an APCD?
Conduct an inventory of the insurance market, access data, add and evaluate public payers, develop submission rules, manage data, and validate data. The APCD Council Development Manual takes an in-depth look at developing an APCD.
How are APCDs funded?
Public APCDs are typically funded by one or more of the following sources:
- General appropriations (for example, New Hampshire)
- Fee assessments on public and private payers (health plans) and facilities (for example, Vermont)
- Medicaid match (for example, Utah)
- Data sales (for example, Maine)
Some state APCDs also receive support from foundations (for example, Colorado). Private, voluntary reporting initiatives generally rely on membership dues for core funding (for example, Wisconsin).
Does the APCD Council provide consulting services to states interested in building APCDs?
No, but the APCD Council and the National Association of Health Data Organizations (NAHDO) can respond to questions, direct inquiries to subject-matter experts, support state legislative and other efforts, and more. E-mail info@apcdcouncil.org.
Can I use APCD Council documents in a presentation or an article?
Yes. Please review the APCD Council Attribution Policy before including APCD Council materials in presentations, articles, and other work.
Have a question that isn't answered here? E-mail info@apcdcouncil.org.