Electronic health record (EHR) interoperability refers to the ability of different EHR systems to communicate and exchange patient information seamlessly. Through interoperability, healthcare providers can gain access to patient health information, regardless of the EHR system or location it was created in. In other words, EHR interoperability is the foundation for achieving connected, collaborative care amongst healthcare organizations.
Key Components EHR Interoperability
Achieving interoperability is vital for improving quality of care, reducing medical errors, and enhancing overall healthcare efficiency. By incorporating the following key components into EHR systems, healthcare systems can move closer to achieving comprehensive and seamless interoperability, resulting in improved patient care and more efficient workflows.
Data Standardization
Data standardization is a crucial component of EHR interoperability. It refers to the process of defining and implementing standard data elements and coding schemes that ensure consistency and accuracy in patient information. Standardization helps organizations:
- Reduce chances of data errors
- Facilitate efficient data exchange
- Create a foundation for robust analytics and research
Health information technology standards define the format, content, and semantics of health-related data that can be shared across EHR systems. Implementation of and adherence to these interoperability standards are critical for seamless data sharing across disparate EHR systems.
Systems Integration
Effective interoperability requires different EHR systems to be integrated, meaning they can communicate with each other and share patient data. EHR integration can be challenging as different systems can use different technologies, platforms, interfaces, and messaging formats.
With that said, integration requires a well-designed architecture that enables communication and data transfer between the systems. Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) are a viable solution for EHR integration. HIEs act as a hub, allowing EHR systems to exchange data through a shared network and a single interface. HIEs leverage data standardization to enable seamless communication between different EHRs.
Information Exchange and Transfer
Information exchange refers to the process of moving patient data from one health information system to another. EHR systems use different protocols and interfaces to exchange data. A few of the widely adopted data exchange standards include HL7 (Health Level Seven) and FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources). Data exchange protocols must maintain data security and patient privacy while enabling data sharing and exchange.
Benefits of EHR Interoperability
EHR interoperability allows medical professionals to use EHRs to their full potential and make more informed decisions, leading to improved patient outcomes. For example, if a patient has a chronic condition – such as diabetes – and they need medication adjustments, the healthcare provider can view all the patient’s previous medication prescriptions and make more informed choices. Additional benefits of EHR interoperability include:
- Better patient safety – Interoperable data reduces the risk of medical errors that can occur due to incomplete or incorrect medical information. Additionally, EHR interoperability improves data security, which is a growing concern for healthcare providers.
- Improved operational efficiency – When healthcare providers can easily access a patient’s medical history, they spend less time gathering information manually, freeing up more time to focus on patient care. Interoperability also helps reduce healthcare costs, such as cutting back on redundant testing.
- Compliance with 21st Century Cures Act – The 21st Century Cures Act supports innovation in healthcare technology and EHR interoperability across hospitals, healthcare providers, and patients. The act intends to improve patient care coordination, ensure safe and secure data sharing, and accelerate the development and implementation of new healthcare technologies.
Common EHR Interoperability Challenges
From technical limitations to regulatory hurdles, healthcare professionals must tackle a range of obstacles as they strive to build fully integrated, interoperable systems, including the following:
- Data silos – One of the biggest EHR interoperability challenges occurs when patient information is stored in separate systems that do not communicate with each other. This results in healthcare providers only having access to partial patient information which can cause critical errors in diagnosis and treatment.
- Lack of standardization – Some EHR systems may not support certain data formats, and some may not have the necessary fields to capture particular data points. While there are HIE standards in place, many healthcare providers are not using them consistently, making it challenging to transfer patient data between different systems.
- Security – Sharing patient data across different EHR systems means there are more entry points for cybercriminals to access sensitive information. Lack of proper security measures can result in unauthorized data breaches, compromising patient privacy and violating health data regulations.
Summary: What is EHR Interoperability?
Creating an interoperable healthcare ecosystem is an important goal for healthcare professionals, enabling better collaboration across different care settings and improving patient outcomes as the objective. However, this feat is not without its challenges. By working together, embracing innovation, and focusing on creating a culture of collaboration, healthcare professionals can overcome challenges and build a seamless, integrated healthcare system.
Maximize EHR Interoperability with Expert Solutions
Enhancing the interoperability of your EHR can be a daunting task, but our team of seasoned EHR consultants can help. We identify and address existing disparities in interoperability, reveal any hidden obstacles, and find solutions to challenges presented by external stakeholders.
We also provide thorough training and support to ensure that every staff member does their part to reach organizational EHR interoperability goals. Contact us to learn more about our EHR optimization solutions that will help you achieve seamless interoperability.
