The need for seamless data exchange is paramount in modern healthcare. At the forefront of this transformation, Surescripts is the nation’s leading health information network that empowers healthcare providers with the tools they need to deliver efficient, high-quality care.
Expanding the Horizons of Healthcare Data Exchange
Surescripts has long been a trusted partner in the healthcare ecosystem by facilitating both electronic prescribing and the exchange of clinical information. In 2023 alone, over 2 million providers and organizations utilized Surescripts to exchange vital healthcare data. Katie Holcomb, Product Marketing Manager at Surescripts, recently discussed how the organization is pushing the boundaries of interoperability to better serve healthcare providers and their patients. “Healthcare is incredibly complex,” Holcomb noted, emphasizing the role Surescripts plays in simplifying this complexity.
By connecting providers, pharmacies, payers and electronic health record (EHR) vendors, Surescripts helps improve the health of patients across the nation. This mission aligns with Holcomb’s personal passion for making healthcare more accessible and effective.
The Trusted Exchange Framework and the Role of QHINs
A key component of Surescripts' strategy is their involvement with the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA), a national framework designed to standardize the exchange of healthcare data across the United States. As Holcomb explained, TEFCA, born from the 21st Century Cures Act, establishes the minimum standards for data exchange, aiming to connect the entire healthcare ecosystem.
At the heart of TEFCA are Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs). These networks are tasked with securely exchanging clinical information nationwide. Surescripts is currently a candidate for QHIN, actively working with the Recognized Coordinating Entity (RCE) to finalize their participation. “We are super excited about this,” Holcomb shared, while highlighting the potential impact of QHINs on expanding data exchange and improving patient care. "Interoperability is no longer going to be this goal or something people talk about; it will just happen because most of the health ecosystem will be connected."
The Practical Benefits of QHIN Connectivity
For medical practices and clinicians, connecting to a QHIN through their EHR or EMR systems offers several key benefits. First and foremost, it provides greater access to comprehensive clinical information. A recent Surescripts survey revealed that 85% of pharmacists and 57% of other clinicians prioritize having centralized information about their patients. This expanded access can significantly enhance care coordination and reduce the administrative burden on healthcare providers.
Holcomb pointed out that QHIN connectivity can play a crucial role in reducing clinician burnout. Administrative tasks, such as manual data entry and managing faxes, are a significant contributor to burnout. By automating and streamlining these processes, QHINs enable clinicians to focus more on patient care rather than paperwork.
Finally, QHINs have the potential to give clinicians more time with their patients. Holcomb referenced a perspective shared by Lenda Volk, Surescripts’ Chief Data and Analytics Officer, who noted that while some clinicians might be nostalgic for a time when patient care felt less encumbered by technology, the reality is that QHINs will enable providers to use technology more effectively, ultimately enhancing patient interactions.
Looking Forward
As Surescripts continues to lead the charge in healthcare interoperability, the organization is committed to ensuring that medical practices and clinicians have the tools they need to thrive. For those interested in exploring the benefits of QHIN connectivity, Holcomb encourages reaching out to your EHR or EMR vendor to see if they are already connected or planning to connect to a QHIN.
Resources:
Access Surescripts’ “QHIN Readiness Guide” at surescripts.com/QHINready
Join the TEFCA/RCE monthly informational calls (open to the public)
MGMA Resources:
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