HIE Information for Consumers
Hospitals and other health care providers (providers) use technology to record and share patient health information (e.g., test results, allergies, and medications) with other treating providers. Electronic health information exchange helps improve communication among treating providers and enables them to make well-informed decisions about your health.
Health information exchange (HIE) organizations provide the electronic network that allows treating providers to securely share patient health information with authorized users.
Electronic Health Information Exchange
How It Works
Electronic health information exchange gives treating providers secure access to your electronic health information via the following process:
- Information from a patient health visit is recorded by a provider in an electronic health record system.
- An HIE organization securely makes the information available to other providers involved in the patient's care.
- Patients may opt out from sharing their information electronically.
Advantages of Electronic Health Information Exchange
Sharing health information takes more time when using traditional methods like fax or mail. With electronic health information exchange, your health information can be securely accessed by your care team when and where care is needed.
In some instances, access to this vital information can be lifesaving.
Opting Out
A consumer’s decision to block access to their electronic health information by treating providers should not be made without understanding the potential patient safety risks associated with a partial health record.
To learn more about opting out, contact your treating provider(s) to identify the HIE organization(s) used by the practice or facility for electronic health information exchange. If you previously opted out and would like your electronic health information to be made available to your health care provider(s), you can opt back in by contacting the HIE organization.
Improving Access to Health Information
There is a coordinated national focus on improving access, exchange, and use of electronic health information. Federal programs and policies that are working to advance electronic health information exchange and interoperability include:
Since April 2021, health care providers and HIEs have been prohibited from information blocking under federal regulations. Information blocking encompasses certain actions that could interfere with electronic health information access or exchange by authorized users. Certain exceptions apply.
As of July 2021, CMS is enforcing requirements that aim to improve patients' access to their health information. Under the rule, CMS-regulated payers must implement patient access and provider directory APIs, as well as payer-to-payer data exchange.
Released in January 2022, TEFCA outlines a set of principles, terms, and conditions for nationwide electronic health information exchange. A voluntary network based on the Common Agreement offers a centralized model for standardized electronic health information exchange.