What does "supplemental data" refer to in HEDIS?

Supplemental data in the context of HEDIS refers to information that is gathered from sources beyond claims data. This includes various types of non-claims information that can provide additional insights into healthcare performance and patient outcomes. Examples of supplemental data can include patient medical records, health information from electronic health records (EHRs), or data collected from patient surveys and other health-related datasets.

This broader scope of data collection is critical for enhancing the accuracy and comprehensiveness of HEDIS measures. It allows healthcare organizations to capture a more holistic view of patient care and the effectiveness of treatments, thus improving the quality of care assessments. By utilizing supplemental data, organizations can address gaps that claims data alone may not fully represent, such as details on patient experience and clinical outcomes not recorded in billing or insurance claims.