American College of Emergency Physicians takes issue with report from new HealthFacts RI database.

Background On February 10, the HealthFacts RI database, a new all-payer healthcare claims database, was launched. EOHHS released a report from the database which found that nearly 60 percent of all visits to Rhode Island emergency rooms in 2014 were potentially preventable. The top reasons for emergency room visits varied by payer type, according to the report. Alcohol abuse, teeth disorders and upper respiratory infections were especially prevalent among the Medicaid population. Chest pain, dizziness and urinary tract infections were particular to the Medicare population. Neck sprains, headache and chest pain were among the top reasons for privately insured patients. The database is a partnership led by EOHHS, with support from HealthSource RI, the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner and the Rhode Island Department of Health. It includes claims information from all major insurers in the state.