Applications of Indirect Estimation of Race/Ethnicity Data in Health Plan Activities

The Problem We Face

• The collection of data on race, ethnicity and primary language of enrollees are key steps in improving overall quality and reducing racial and ethnic disparities in health and health care
• Fundamental barriers to the collection of such data exist

Goals and Rationale

WellPoint, Inc. (WellPoint) historically did not collect data in regard to the race/ethnicity of its members. The Health Disparities Analytic Unit at WellPoint has developed a methodology to derive indirect race and ethnicity information for members.