Machine Readable Files

What Exactly is the Transparency in Coverage - Public Access Requirement?

The Public Access Requirement is the first of three specific requirements that must be implemented. Group health plans and issuers must make three separate machine-readable files (MRF) publicly available, free of charge by the enforcement deadline of July 1, 2022. The files must be updated monthly and include the following detailed pricing information:

• In network: Negotiated rates for all covered items and services between the plan or issuer and in-network providers.
• Out of network: Historical payments to, and billed charges from, out-of-network providers. Files are not required if there are fewer than 20 claims for a service for a provider.
• Prescription drugs: In-network negotiated rates and historical net prices for all covered prescription drugs at the pharmacy location level (this requirement is delayed pending further rulemaking).

Purpose of the Machine-Readable Files (MRF)

• To provide raw data in a specific format that can be read by machines without requiring manipulation or other human intervention.
• They are not intended to be user friendly or easily understood by the average consumer; however, they are an intermediate step that lays the groundwork for a consumer-facing experience, powered by this data, to inform your employees’ decision making.

To access the Machine Readable Files for Industrial Credit Union’s group health plan, please click here.