With HIMSS19 in the rearview mirror and a new CMS rule introduced, one of the main talking points of HIMSS19 is now in the spotlight. Information Sharing or in the case of the new CMS rule, information blocking. This new rule is called: The Interoperability and Patient Access Proposed Rule.
As the Healthcare IT world converged in Orlando, Florida for HIMSS, CMS released a new rule on Monday, February 11th that is welcomed by patients and patient advocates. The new rule gives the patient more control of his or her electronic health record. If a patient requests their record, and it is not given to them electronically, and for free, CMS now considers this information blocking. The new rule also requires that healthcare providers and plans implement open data sharing technologies to support transitions of care as patients move between physicians and plans. The fine for none compliance? Up to $1 million for lack of interoperability.
Some additional highlights from the 724-page document include:
Additionally, CMS released two requests for information to obtain feedback on interoperability and health information technology and adoption in the post-acute space and the role of patient matching in interoperability and improved patient care.
CMS will be accepting comments on these major provisions until early April.