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Top 3 Interoperability Technologies for Secure Health Data Exchange in 2020

The healthcare industry is on a mission to provide the best-integrated care using interoperability, which centers on the idea of enhancing patient care and safety as its prime directives. The role of interoperability in the healthcare ecosystem is its ability to provide various information systems to ensure medical professionals can seamlessly access, exchange, integrate, and use data. 

Seeing as the world sees unprecedented advancements in technology – from the implementation of electronic health records (EHR) to other digital applications – it’s no surprise how the medical field uses it as a cornerstone to improving the interoperability of healthcare IT systems. 

With that in mind, the list below explores the three keys of interoperability technologies that are changing the way healthcare secures and operates data exchange: 

Direct Secure Messaging 

Also known as Direct Messaging or Direct, this technology works similarly to fax or email as it is centered on delivering data using a digital point-to-point solution. Messaging between patients and providers enhances the interoperability between healthcare organizations, leading to improvements in providing accurate care for patients. 

Direct Messaging also uses advanced encryption protocols and authentication to improve the reliability and security of the method, especially since it transmits valuable information using electronically protected health information (ePHI). 

Query-Based Exchange 

This system uses a centralized online hub that is built on an interoperability foundation that promotes seamless accessibility and the shareability of patient health records to participating providers. 

The framework was developed by an organization called Carequality, which operates in line with the requirements of HIPAA and other relevant laws to ensure patient care information is open to physicians, practices, pharmacies, hospitals, and other medical organizations in an ethical and responsible manner. 

By standardizing the exchange of patient data, organizations can create more actionable healthcare programs for providers. 

Cloud Fax 

Point-to-point messaging like a fax is an old-school yet effective way of transmitting the information. Cloud fax uses its old counterpart as the inspiration behind the technology, which means that faxing is now done in a digital format. 

The system leaves room for provider-to-provider communication without the need to invest in infrastructures like fax machines or dedicated fax phone lines, allowing the industry to send, receive, and store information efficiently and in compliance with the HIPAA. 

Keep in mind that cloud fax services are HITIRST CSF certified, so you don’t have to worry about the legality of integrating the cloud fax solution into your system. 

Conclusion: Technology Improves the Quality of Care and Experiences in the Healthcare Industry

Interoperability is designed to make it easier for providers to share, access, and utilize accurate public health data to improve care coordination and patient experiences. The security behind the technologies also promises alignment with HIPAA laws to facilitate greater transparency and patient safety, all while reducing healthcare costs. 

Interoperability allows organizations to save time and money with every patient encounter by sending and receiving accurate data on the dot every time. With that in mind, the technologies above are the leading pillars in the industry that is providing advanced solutions for integrating interoperability in healthcare. 

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