iHealthBeat: Health Data Exchange

Stakeholders Tout Health IT Tools To Boost Chronic Care Management

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 18:47:00 Z

Several health IT groups have sent letters to a Senate committee working group in response to a request for comments on how interoperability and telehealth can be used to improve chronic disease care. Most groups say they support expanding the use of telehealth services and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives is urging lawmakers to facilitate interoperability across the care continuum. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

FDA Issues Draft Guidance for Medical Device Interoperability

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 18:25:00 Z

FDA has issued new draft guidance for manufacturers of connected medical devices to improve interoperability. Meanwhile, a cybersecurity advocacy group has published an open letter calling on the health care industry to adopt five principles for creating, using and maintaining medical devices. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

Indiana, Ohio HIEs Partner To Electronically Share Patient Health Data

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 17:13:00 Z

Cincinnati-based Health Bridge and Indianapolis-based Indiana Health Information Exchange, two of the nation's largest HIEs, have announced a partnership to increase data sharing. The partnership will allow providers at Indiana-based Reid Health to electronically receive health data for patients treated in Ohio. Healthcare IT News, Clinical Innovation & Technology.

Groups Support Calls for FCC To Update Rural Health Care Program

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 17:58:00 Z

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society and the Personal Connected Health Alliance in a letter urge the Federal Communications Commission to listen to stakeholders' calls to modernize the Rural Health Care Program. The letter follows a petition to revamp the program from a coalition of telehealth and health IT organizations. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

Five Major Health IT Vendors Agree to Interoperability Framework

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 17:58:00 Z

Five major health IT vendors -- athenahealth, eClinicalWorks, Epic Systems, NextGen Healthcare and Surescripts -- have agreed to adopt the Sequoia Project's Carequality Interoperability Framework. Carequality Director Dave Cassel said he expects other health IT vendors, as well as government agencies, health information exchanges, payers and others to join in the future. EHR Intelligence, Healthcare Informatics.

Senate Panel Unveils Draft Bill To Foster Health Data Sharing

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 17:37:00 Z

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee has unveiled draft legislation that aims to boost electronic health record interoperability and increase patients' access to their health data. Among other things, the measure would establish a rating system to compare health IT products. Health Data Management et al.

Report: Lack of Out-of-Network Interoperability Is Top Issue for ACOs

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 16:19:00 Z

A new report finds that the top challenge facing accountable care organizations is a lack of interoperability with out-of-network providers, particularly specialists who do not qualify for the meaningful use program. Many ACOs say the issue has prevented them from integrating data with behavioral health care providers. Modern Healthcare, Premier release.

Survey Finds Willingness Among Patients To Share Health Data

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 18:04:00 Z

A new Pew Research Center survey finds that U.S. residents are increasingly open to sharing their health information with providers. According to the survey, about 52% of respondents say using a health information website that would give providers access to their records and simplify the appointment scheduling process would be acceptable. Health IT Interoperability et al.

Network Aims To Expand Access to Health Data for Patients, Providers

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 16:25:00 Z

The Network for Regional Health Improvement, which aims to make regional health data standardized, sharable and transparent, is expected to launch in about four weeks. About 40 regional collaboratives have joined the effort. NRHI President Elizabeth Mitchell says better access to publicly reported performance data could help refine payment systems and drive practice improvements. FierceHealthIT, MedPage Today.

HIE Use Could Help Reduce Repeat Imaging Tests, Associated Costs

Fri, 15 Jan 2016 18:13:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology finds that physician use of health information exchanges can result in moderate savings in avoided repeat imaging tests. The researchers note that future studies should include more patient populations and services outside of radiology. FierceHealthIT, JACR.

Biden's Cancer Cure Initiative Looks To Improve Data Sharing

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:03:00 Z

Vice President Biden is leading a new effort to find a cure for cancer that will leverage health IT and data sharing. He says the effort will focus on eliminating "silos" that prevent researchers from sharing data and encouraging "technology innovators" to advance research and care delivery. FierceHealthIT et al.

Health IT Experts Weigh In on Trends for 2016

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 12:00:00 Z

Doug Fridsma, president and CEO of the American Medical Informatics Association, John Halamka, CIO of the Beth Israel Deaconess Health System, and Lynne Thomas Gordon, CEO of the American Health Information Management Association, spoke with iHealthBeat about the biggest issues and challenges facing the health IT sector this year.

Wash. Governor Calls for Better Data Sharing To Improve Gun Safety

Thu, 07 Jan 2016 17:44:00 Z

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has signed an executive order requiring government agencies to collect and share data on gun-related hospitalizations and deaths, among other provisions. The order comes days after HHS finalized a rule to increase mental health data sharing for firearm background checks. AP/Modern Healthcare, Office of the Governor release.

True Interoperability Is Still Far Off

Wed, 06 Jan 2016 11:00:00 Z

True interoperability cannot be realized until physicians, hospitals and other providers can access and view the discrete data they need to improve patient care, experts say. Today, that kind of interoperability among disparate electronic health records is rare; instead, health information exchange is still mostly confined to the interchange of documents, such as care summaries.

New Gun Control Rule Eases Sharing of Mental Health Data

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 17:51:00 Z

HHS has finalized a rule that modifies HIPAA to allow certain covered entities to disclose to the FBI's firearms background check database the names of individuals who are barred from owning a firearm for mental health reasons. The rule, which is set to take effect next month, was issued in conjunction with several new gun control executive actions. Politico et al.

Study Calls for More Research on Health Data Exchange Outcomes

Wed, 23 Dec 2015 14:55:00 Z

While health information exchange use is rising, a meta-analysis of 34 studies on health data exchange finds inconsistent methodologies and a lack of high-quality data. The researchers conclude that studies on health information exchange should be more coordinated and systematic to better determine value. FierceHealthIT, Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Health Data Exchange Use Rises, but Benefits Are Questionable

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 18:19:00 Z

While health information exchange use is on the rise, a report released by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality finds that its clinical and economic benefits are "not overwhelmingly supported by the available evidence." AHRQ recommends that future studies on HIE address more comprehensive questions and use more robust designs. FierceEMR et al.

Policy Committee's Interoperability Report Draws Mixed Response

Fri, 18 Dec 2015 19:10:00 Z

The Health IT Policy Committee's interoperability task force has released its report to Congress detailing ways to overcome barriers to interoperability. The report has drawn mixed responses from industry experts, with some praising the report's approach and others criticizing its focus on information blocking. Health Data Management.

Report Finds 'Mixed Progress' Among Beacon Community Programs

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 17:28:00 Z

A new report from the National Opinion Research Center finds that Beacon Communities have had mixed progress on health IT use and quality measures. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT has funded 17 Beacon Communities nationwide to help health care providers use electronic health records and health information exchange in their communities. FierceHealthIT, NORC report.

FDA Publicly Launches precisionFDA Site for Genome Sequencing

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 18:05:00 Z

FDA has launched a new Web platform for sharing genomic information. The precisionFDA project currently includes several public- and private-sector groups and features new tools that participants can use to submit, validate and share genomic data. FierceHealthIT et al.

Carequality Releases Guidance To Help Improve Interoperability

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 18:21:00 Z

Carequality, a health information network collaborative, has unveiled a framework to help vendors, insurers and providers advance interoperability. The guidance encourages stakeholders to adopt a set of legal terms,policy requirements and technical specifications to facilitate health data exchange. Modern Healthcare et al.

DeSalvo Details Goal To Achieve HIE Interoperability in 2016

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 19:03:00 Z

Speaking at a Bipartisan Policy Center event yesterday, National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo said her agency aims to connect the country's health information exchanges by the end of 2016. The goal is part of a larger effort to achieve nationwide interoperability. Health Data Management, EHR Intelligence.

Report Recommends Integrating Personal Health Records Into HIEs

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 18:59:00 Z

A report submitted to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT by vendor Venesco recommends that health information exchanges incorporate personal health records into their service offerings. The report outlines strategies for doing so, including determining desired functionalities. FierceEMR, Venesco report.

Carequality Names Committee To Oversee Interoperability Efforts

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 18:38:00 Z

Health information network collaborative Carequality has announced its 2015-2016 Steering Committee members, who will be tasked with overseeing the launch of the group's nationwide health IT interoperability effort. The committee will pursue efforts to implement near-universal interoperability among existing health information exchanges. Health IT Interoperability.

Policy Committee Task Force Unveils Interoperability Suggestions

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 18:17:00 Z

The Health IT Policy Committee's interoperability task force has developed four recommendations for Congress to help overcome barriers to widespread health data exchange. Among other things, the task force suggests financial incentives be tied to interoperability. Health Data Management.

FDA Unveils Open-Source Genomic Data-Sharing Platform

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 17:53:00 Z

FDA has unveiled a new open-source genomic data-sharing platform as part of President Obama's precision medicine initiative. The precisionFDA platform eventually will allow researchers to upload and share bioinformatics data, genomic data and reference genomes. FierceHealthIT, FedScoop.

Groups Share Recommendations To Improve Patient Matching

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 17:10:00 Z

The Care Connectivity Consortium and Sequoia Project, two health information exchange organizations, have released a white paper recommending that stakeholders use standard data formats, among other things, to improve patient matching. The groups are accepting public comment on the recommendations. Modern Healthcare, Sequoia Project release.

Conn. Reportedly Investigating Epic, Hospitals Over Data Blocking

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 18:30:00 Z

A new Connecticut law makes information blocking an unfair trade practice and subjects violators to penalties. As part of the law, the state Attorney General's Office reportedly is investigating complaints against Epic and health systems in the state. Politico, CMIO.

Concerns Raised Over Behavioral Health Data Exchange Standard

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 13:00:00 Z

Members of federal health IT advisory groups are raising concerns about the inclusion of a standard aimed at addressing the barriers of electronically exchanging behavioral health data in the 2015 Edition Health IT Certification Criteria final rule. The experts say the standard's send-and-receive technology is not mature enough to be included in the final rule. Health Data Management.

Groups Release Guide for Developing Interoperability Standards

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 17:36:00 Z

Three groups -- the American Health Information Management Association, the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society and Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise -- have released a white paper that aims to align health IT standards with health information management practices and serve as a guide for developing interoperability standards. Healthcare IT News, Clinical Innovation & Technology.

States Evaluated on Hospitals' Health Data Exchange Capabilities

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 16:03:00 Z

A new review analyzes data from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT’s dashboard to identify which states lead the way in hospital health information exchange. For example, Delaware was the top state for hospitals electronically sharing lab results with any outside provider, with 100% of hospitals reporting the capability. Health IT Interoperability.

Researchers Use Health Data Exchange To Identify 'Cancer Drivers'

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 15:59:00 Z

In a study published Tuesday, researchers say "cancer drivers" -- altered genes that contribute to the disease's progression -- can be identified through health data exchange. The researchers used an algorithm to analyze integrated data from the Cancer Genome Atlas and the Protein Data Bank. Health IT Interoperability.

WEDI Forms Work Group To Focus on Genomic Data Exchange

Thu, 22 Oct 2015 17:23:00 Z

The Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange is creating a new work group that will develop a roadmap to help health care providers and electronic health record developers leverage genomic data. Meanwhile, a preliminary WEDI task force released a report on issues related to genomic data exchange. FierceHealthIT et al.

Report Ranks EHR Vendors Based on Interoperability, Connectivity

Wed, 21 Oct 2015 15:15:00 Z

A new KLAS report finds that athenahealth's electronic health record system is the easiest to use and passes along minimal extra costs to consumers. Meanwhile, Epic was rated the highest for interoperability, but respondents say the system is more difficult to use. Healthcare IT News et al.

EHR Vendors Adopt Metrics To Gauge Interoperability Progress

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 16:33:00 Z

Under an agreement reached earlier this month at the KLAS Keystone Summit, 12 major electronic health record vendors will adopt a set of metrics and engage in ongoing reporting to help assess the U.S. health care system's progress toward achieving interoperability. Modern Healthcare et al.

Group Urges ONC To Clarify Definition of Information Blocking

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 17:17:00 Z

The HIMSS Electronic Health Record Association in a letter to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT says the agency needs to clarify the definition of information blocking included in a report released earlier this year. With an ambiguous definition, EHRA says ONC could "run the risk of overreaction to what appear to be isolated incidents." Health Data Management et al.

U.S. News & World Report Unveils 'Most Connected' Hospital List

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 16:10:00 Z

U.S. News & World Report has released its 2015-2016 list of the country's "Most Connected Hospitals," which recognizes 159 facilities for improving the electronic exchange of patient data. Eligible hospitals were evaluated based on clinical connectedness, as well as their ability to use health IT to improve patient engagement and safety. U.S. News & World Report et al.

Interoperability Efforts Require More 'Urgency,' AAFP Says

Thu, 15 Oct 2015 15:58:00 Z

In response to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's 10-year nationwide, interoperability roadmap, the American Academy of Family Physicians in a letter argues that ONC must show more urgency in achieving interoperability, noting that physicians cannot wait until 2024. FierceHealthIT, Clinical Innovation & Technology.

AHA: Inadequate Interoperability Hinders Several Aspects of Care

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 16:16:00 Z

A recent report by the American Hospital Association says that the U.S. health care system's lack of interoperability negatively affects care coordination, patient engagement, and reporting of public health, quality and safety data. AHA recommends that officials develop more specific standards for the use of health IT. EHR Intelligence, FierceHealthIT.

OIG Details Information Blocking's Effect on EHR Safe Harbor Status

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 17:40:00 Z

As part of National Health IT Week, HHS' Office of Inspector General has released an alert reminding industry stakeholders about the consequences of information blocking and how it can affect electronic health record donations' safe harbor status under the federal anti-kickback statute. The safe harbor provision was created to protect EHR software donations from hospitals to physicians. EHR Intelligence et al.

Senate Bill Aims To Improve Health IT Interoperability, Transparency

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 17:18:00 Z

Sens. Bill Cassidy and Sheldon Whitehouse have introduced legislation that aims to advance interoperability and help consumers make better decisions by boosting health IT transparency. Among other things, the bill would require the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT to develop a rating system for health IT products to measure performance. FierceEMR et al.

ONC Releases Final Version of 10-Year Interoperability Roadmap

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:39:00 Z

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT has released its final 10-year nationwide interoperability roadmap and set a goal of sending, receiving, finding and using basic data by 2017. While the report has received support from several health IT organizations, some say it could be more detailed. Modern Healthcare et al.

ONC Details Progress on Data Exchange, Online Health Record Access

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 17:01:00 Z

Last week, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT issued three data briefs detailing progress on patients' online access to their medical records, physicians' rates of electronic health information exchange and the percentage of hospitals providing patients the ability to electronically view, download and transmit their health information. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

SCOTUS' Docket Includes Vermont Health Data Collection Law Case

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 14:25:00 Z

The U.S. Supreme Court's new term begins today. One of the cases justices will hear centers on the legality of a requirement under Vermont law for self-funded insurers to submit certain information upon request to the state's database. Oral arguments are expected to begin in December or January 2016. Modern Healthcare.

IRS Should Recognize Community HIE Participation as a Community Benefit

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 10:00:00 Z

Not-for-profit hospitals' participation in community health information exchanges should be considered a community-benefiting activity. Such IRS recognition would be a true win-win for all parties and is wholly consistent with the HITECH Act and other federal policies designed to improve care quality, enhance efficiencies and reduce costs.

Survey: Patients Comfortable With HIE, but Providers Still Behind

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 17:53:00 Z

A Software Advice survey released this week finds that nearly half of patients want their physicians to be able to share their medical records directly with other providers, but just 39% of patients say their doctors do so. Meanwhile, patients say their biggest health data exchange concerns are related to potential privacy and security breaches. EHR Intelligence et al.

Senate Committee Hearing Tackles Stage 3, Interoperability Concerns

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 17:25:00 Z

During a hearing yesterday, Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chair Lamar Alexander renewed his call to delay Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. Meanwhile, lawmakers and Obama administration officials also discussed strategies for improving electronic health record interoperability. Health Data Management et al.

GAO Outlines Five Key Obstacles to Achieving Interoperability

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:51:00 Z

A new Government Accountability Office report highlights five key barriers to interoperability identified by representatives from nonfederal initiatives aimed at improving health data exchange. Meanwhile, several representatives said the meaningful use program has diverted attention and resources from interoperability efforts. FierceEMR et al.

Survey: Patients Want Providers Who Offer Health IT Capabilities

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:46:00 Z

A new survey commissioned by Surescripts finds that many physicians have incomplete medical histories for patients because of a lack of electronic health data sharing, despite the widespread use of electronic health records. Such issues could cause patients to seek more technology-savvy providers. Health IT Interoperability et al.

WEDI: 'Robust' Health IT System, Data Analytics Key to ACOs

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 18:02:00 Z

A Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange issue brief notes that an interoperable health IT infrastructure and data analytics are key to the success of accountable care organizations. According to the brief, achieving interoperability and improving data analytics will help support population health management efforts. EHR Intelligence, FierceHealthIT.

Experts Say Digitization of Health Info Raises Safety, Privacy Risks

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 18:03:00 Z

Some experts say the push toward a digitized health care industry has increased the risk for potential errors that compromise patient safety and privacy. Health data experts note that while companies must comply with federal regulations to ensure the secure storage and transfer of electronic data, coding and other technology errors can affect patients. Bloomberg Business.

ONC Seeks Comments on Draft Interoperability Standards Advisory

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 16:49:00 Z

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT has unveiled the draft 2016 Interoperability Standards Advisory, which will be open for public comment through Nov. 5. The latest version features changes in content and organization. FierceHealthIT, Draft advisory.

Report: HITECH Act Boosts EHR Use but Misses Overall Goals

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 18:21:00 Z

A new report published by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation finds that the HITECH Act has significantly increased health IT adoption but that overall it has missed its "ambitious" goal of establishing "a highly effective and efficient health care system enabled by the advanced use of" health IT. Healthcare IT News et al.

Can EHRs Succeed if Some Stakeholders Intentionally Block Interoperability?

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 12:21:00 Z

Sen. Lamar Alexander, David Kibbe of Direct Trust, William Rich of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Micky Tripathi of the Massachusetts eHealth Collaborative discuss electronic health record interoperability and information blocking.

Oncology Group Urges Congress To Bolster EHR Interoperability

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 17:20:00 Z

The American Society for Clinical Oncology is calling on Congress to pass legislation that would ban information blocking and bolster interoperability of electronic health records. The group says cancer researchers often face barriers to sharing clinical trial data. Modern Healthcare, ASCO release.

Interoperability Task Force Calls for Summit To Synchronize Efforts

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 17:16:00 Z

The Health IT Policy Committee's interoperability task force has recommended convening a summit on health information exchange to ensure stakeholders are on the "same page" as they work toward the goals outlined in the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's interoperability roadmap. Health Data Management et al.

ACOs Still Struggle To Access Out-Of-Network Data, Survey Finds

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 17:49:00 Z

A new survey by the eHealth Initiative finds that accessing out-of-network data is among the top challenges facing accountable care organizations. ACOs also cited data integration and new health IT costs as challenges. Politico's "Morning eHealth," eHealth Initiative webinar.

Report: FDA Should Develop Medical Device Registries Network

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 18:06:00 Z

A new FDA-commissioned report recommends that the agency develop a national coordinated registries network to track medical devices. Such a network, which would aggregate data from various sources, could increase access to medical device information for regulators, providers and patients. FierceHealthIT, Journal of the American Medical Association.

Task Force: Data Blocking Not a Major Barrier to Interoperability

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 17:52:00 Z

The Health IT Policy Committee's interoperability task force finds information blocking is not a primary barrier to health data exchange. Instead, the task force says the differences between electronic health record systems, costs and a lack of standards are the barriers most often cited by providers and vendors. FierceEMR, Health Data Management.

Five Health Systems Join CommonWell To Advance Data Exchange

Tue, 25 Aug 2015 18:04:00 Z

Five small- and mid-sized Cerner clients are joining the CommonWell Health Alliance, which aims to facilitate greater access to health data through improved interoperability. The five health systems are located in the Pacific Northwest. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

Intel, Oregon-Based University Launch New Cloud Cancer Platform

Thu, 20 Aug 2015 18:04:00 Z

Intel and Oregon Health & Science University have launched a joint initiative, the Collaborative Cancer Cloud, that aims to improve secure data sharing for providers and researchers. With the platform, physicians and researchers can securely send and receive relevant, non-identifying data. Health Data Management, Intel release.

Health Data Exchange Increasing Among Hospitals, Report Finds

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 18:02:00 Z

A new report from the American Hospital Association and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT shows health information exchange is increasing among hospitals. However, fewer than a quarter of hospitals in 2014 could find, send, receive and use data from sources outside of their network. Health Data Management et al.

ED Physician Work Group Outlines Recommendations for National HIE

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 17:18:00 Z

A paper released by an American College of Emergency Physicians work group offers recommendations for the development of a national health information exchange that will benefit emergency department doctors. For instance, the group suggests that ED physicians participate in HIE-related activities to appropriately represent their interests. FierceHealthIT, Health Data Management.

How Much Longer Will We Allow Data Blocking To Slow Us Down?

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 15:52:00 Z

Electronic health record-based clinical data registries are helping to advance medicine at an unprecedented pace. But some EHR vendors are requiring physicians to pay exorbitant fees to share their data with registries and, in some cases, entirely prohibiting physicians from participating in registries.

EHR Interoperability With Long-Term Care Providers Wanted, but Who Will Pay?

Thu, 30 Jul 2015 11:00:00 Z

The federal government wants skilled nursing facilities and home care agencies to electronically exchange health information with hospitals and other providers. But it's unclear where long-term and post-acute-care providers -- who aren't eligible for meaningful use incentives -- will get the money to implement these health IT systems.

AHA Urges Congress To Improve Interoperability, Data Sharing

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 17:46:00 Z

In a recent letter to Congress, the American Hospital Association asks lawmakers to build upon existing policy to improve interoperability and health data exchange. The organization made several recommendations regarding information sharing and electronic health record security. Health IT Security, AHA letter.

ONC Announces $38M in Grants To Bolster Use of Health IT

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 18:21:00 Z

Today, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT unveiled three new grant programs that provide a total of $38 million to 20 health care entities to advance the use of health IT. The two-year grant programs target health data exchange, population health management and workforce training. FierceHealthIT, HHS release.

Study: HIEs Can Help Significantly Reduce Unnecessary ED Tests

Thu, 23 Jul 2015 17:28:00 Z

A new study finds that leveraging data from health information exchanges can significantly reduce unnecessary laboratory tests and radiology exams at emergency departments. The study's principal researcher notes clinical liaisons, or scribes, could be key to realizing the benefits of HIEs. Modern Healthcare et al.

AHIMA, IHE Unveil Draft Roadmap for Health Information Governance

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:50:00 Z

In a draft roadmap, the American Health Information Management Association and Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise outline approaches for creating standards to boost health information governance. The final roadmap will be released this fall. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

CMS Encourages Home Health Agencies To Adopt Health IT

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 17:23:00 Z

In a proposed rule released Monday, CMS encourages home health agencies to accelerate their use of electronic health records and health information exchange as a means to improve care quality and lower costs through value-based purchasing programs. Health Data Management et al.

Task Force: Feedback Mixed on ONC's Interoperability Advisory

Wed, 01 Jul 2015 17:20:00 Z

The Health IT Standards Committee's Interoperability Standards Advisory Task Force reports it has received mixed feedback on the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's interoperability standards advisory. While commenters called for strong security and privacy standards, there was a lack of consensus on what those standards should look like or how they would be used. FierceEMR.

Few Nursing Homes Use Health IT for External Communication

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 17:54:00 Z

A new CMS-funded study finds that while nursing homes have the technology to support patient care tasks, few use the tools to communicate with external facilities, such as hospitals and off-site pharmacies. The study shows health IT in nursing homes was commonly used for in-house tasks, such as appointment scheduling and admissions. FierceHealthIT, Applied Clinical Informatics.

Groups Support Interoperability Provisions in 21st Century Cures

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 18:02:00 Z

A group of 31 organizations has sent a letter to the House Energy and Commerce Committee supporting the interoperability language included in the 21st Century Cures Act. Meanwhile, the committee has unveiled a new draft of the bill, but it does not include any major changes to health IT language included in previous versions. Health Data Management, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

AAFP President Argues Interoperability Issues Detrimental to Care

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 16:55:00 Z

American Academy of Family Physicians President Robert Wergin argues in an opinion piece that today's "electronic health record environment" lacks dependable interoperability, "much to the detriment of high-quality patient care." The Hill's "Congress Blog."

Direct Messaging Benefits Outweigh Costs, Survey Finds

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 16:51:00 Z

A new Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society survey finds most health information organizations support the use of Direct messaging, and about half say the benefits of such technology outweigh the associated costs. Health Data Management et al.

ONC-Funded Report Finds Providers' HIE Needs Have Evolved

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 17:37:00 Z

A new Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT-funded report examines providers' experiences with health information exchange in six states. The report finds providers' HIE needs have evolved from connecting disparate electronic health record systems to seeking "actionable" data at the point of care. FierceEMR et al.

Senate Committee, Stakeholders Look To Address Health IT Issues

Thu, 11 Jun 2015 17:50:00 Z

Yesterday, lawmakers on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee heard testimony from stakeholders on issues surrounding the meaningful use program, electronic health record interoperability and patients' access to data. The meeting marked the first in a series aimed at identifying solutions to health IT problems. FierceHealthIT et al.

Where Did the Excitement Go at Health Datapalooza?

Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:00:00 Z

Despite advances on the technology and policy fronts, stakeholders believe the promise of health IT is taking too long to realize. Huge barriers still stand in the way, and health care reform will continue to take several more years.

San Diego HIE To See Participation Boost With New Providers, Consent Change

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 12:17:00 Z

With the addition of three major health systems and a change in its patient consent policy, San Diego Health Connect is on track to have two million patients participating in the health information exchange by later this month. While some have raised privacy concerns, others say that increased health information sharing will help improve efficiency and care quality.

Speakers Encourage Data Sharing at Health Datapalooza Conference

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 17:49:00 Z

Health care experts at the Health Datapalooza conference in Washington, D.C., are touting the importance of health data sharing to reduce emergency department visits and improve patients' quality of care. Meanwhile, CMS is promoting a new email address that stakeholders can use to report health data blocking. Modern Healthcare.

Brookings Fellow: U.S. on Cusp of Achieving Return on HIE Investment

Tue, 02 Jun 2015 16:12:00 Z

In a new Brookings Institution paper, fellow Niam Yaraghi writes that after 10 years and about $548 million in federal grants, the U.S. health care system is "on the verge of realizing" a return on its investments in health IT and health information exchanges. FierceHealthIT, EHR Intelligence.

Federal Officials, Lawmakers Seek Ways To Bolster Interoperability

Wed, 27 May 2015 17:50:00 Z

Amid reports of information blocking among electronic health record vendors and hospitals, lawmakers and federal officials are seeking ways to increase interoperability and ensure the free flow of information. For example, a bill approved by a House committee last week would define information blocking as a federal offense. New York Times.

The FHIR Train Leaves the Station

Tue, 26 May 2015 10:00:00 Z

Proponents of the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources, or FHIR, standards framework say it can facilitate health information exchange, expand electronic health record capabilities and foster mobile health innovation.

Stakeholders Divided as Lawmakers Mark Up 21st Century Cures Bill

Wed, 20 May 2015 18:20:00 Z

During a House Energy and Commerce Committee meeting this week, lawmakers discussed interoperability provisions and other changes recently made to the 21st Century Cures Act. The bill has received mixed reaction from stakeholders. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

Lawmakers To Address Behavioral Health Data Sharing via EHRs

Wed, 20 May 2015 17:31:00 Z

Two lawmakers are working on a draft proposal that would modernize current federal rules on sharing behavioral health data via electronic health records. Meanwhile, federal officials say they plan to issue a rule or guidance on behavioral health data sharing rules prior to President Obama leaving office in 2017. Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

ONC Publicly Releases Comments on Interoperability Roadmap

Mon, 18 May 2015 18:18:00 Z

Last week, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT published nearly 250 public comments that it received on its draft nationwide interoperability roadmap. Stakeholders' reactions were mixed, with some praising ONC for its efforts and others urging the agency to step back and avoid further government involvement. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

Interoperability Provisions Added to 21st Century Cures Draft Bill

Thu, 14 May 2015 17:42:00 Z

House Energy and Commerce Committee leaders have unveiled a revised draft of the 21st Century Cures Act that includes language to bolster interoperability. Stakeholders largely support the draft measure's interoperability provisions but are concerned about the lack of telehealth provisions. Modern Healthcare et al.

Federal Work Groups Respond to Meaningful Use Stage 3 Proposal

Wed, 13 May 2015 15:52:00 Z

Health IT Policy Committee work groups generally agree with CMS' proposed rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. However, the work groups suggest changes to some program requirement thresholds for patient engagement and health information exchange. Health Data Management et al.

Senators Question Ability of EHRs To Support Personalized Medicine

Wed, 06 May 2015 17:27:00 Z

During a Senate committee hearing yesterday, National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo said that electronic health records and health IT are "foundational" to President Obama's Precision Medicine initiative. However, lawmakers questioned whether EHRs are ready to support such research, given the lack of interoperability. Health Data Management et al.

Blumenthal: Security, Interoperability Hindering Advanced Health IT

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 16:31:00 Z

Commonwealth Fund President and former National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal writes that emerging health IT tools could change "the quality and convenience of health care services" in the future, but he notes that outdated data security standards and interoperability issues remain barriers to achieving widespread use. Wall Street Journal's "The Experts."

EHR Interoperability Must Be Addressed

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 11:00:00 Z

The simple life-saving ability of electronic health record systems to connect to one another so health care providers can easily and readily access patient data is not being addressed. A new petition on Change.org aims to drum up grass-roots efforts to demand EHR interoperability.

Opinion Piece, Editorial Slam Data Blocking, Lack of Interoperability

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 17:43:00 Z

A Modern Healthcare opinion piece argues that the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT must do more to bar stakeholders from restricting access to and the sharing of health data. Meanwhile, a New York Times editorial suggests that the federal government could implement new laws and regulations to stop "information blocking." Modern Healthcare, New York Times.

HIMSS15: Federal Health Officials 'Optimistic' About Future of Health IT

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 14:00:00 Z

National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo and acting CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt are "optimistic" about leveraging health IT to improve care and reduce costs. They also discussed the importance of interoperability and Congress' increased interest in health IT policy.

DeSalvo Announces $1M in Grants for Health Data Exchange Efforts

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:44:00 Z

Through the Community Interoperability and Health Information Exchange Program, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT plans to award $1 million in grants to improve health data exchange efforts at community and state levels. The application is open through June 15. Clinical Information & Technology et al.

ONC Slams EHR Vendors, Health Providers for 'Information Blocking'

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 17:04:00 Z

An Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT report lists several complaints regarding efforts by health IT vendors and health care providers to block information sharing. The report details actions ONC and other agencies can take to address the problem. Wall Street Journal et al.

RWJF Tackles Concerns About Health Data Sharing, Privacy

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 16:11:00 Z

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has released a report that recommends ways to harness data to improve individual and community health. The recommendations -- which are based on insights gathered from public discussions held last year -- aim to address public concerns related to the use and exchange of personal data. FierceHealthIT et al.

Study: California Residents Believe HIEs Worsen Privacy, Security

Thu, 02 Apr 2015 17:29:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that about 40% of Californians believe health information exchanges worsen privacy and security. The findings also show that many residents want control over the use of their data for research purposes. Health IT Security, FierceHealthIT.

N.Y. Legislature Approves $45M for Health Information Exchange

Thu, 02 Apr 2015 16:40:00 Z

The Statewide Health Information Network for New York will receive $45 million in funding during fiscal year 2015-2016 under a new agreement by state lawmakers. The funding will help make a standard set of services available to all participants. Health Data Management, SHIN-NY release.

House Approves SGR Deal With Major Health IT Provisions

Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:50:00 Z

Yesterday, the House voted 392-37 to approve legislation to permanently replace the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. The measure -- which the Senate will consider after it returns from recess on April 13 -- has significant implications for the meaningful use program, interoperability and telehealth. Modern Healthcare et al.

Opinion: Big Data, Query System Key to Improving Treatment

Thu, 26 Mar 2015 13:29:00 Z

In a Wall Street Journal blog post, John Sotos -- a cardiologist and CEO of a medical-expertise search company -- writes that the implementation of a national query system would allow doctors to review past patient histories and improve treatment options using big data. Wall Street Journal's "The Experts."