Interoperability in healthcare refers to the ability of different healthcare information systems, devices, and applications to access, exchange, integrate, and cooperatively use healthcare data in a coordinated way. It is the ability of two or more systems to exchange health information and use the information once it is received. Healthcare interoperability is important because patients receive care from multiple providers working in multiple healthcare systems and may be on multiple payer panels. The need for seamless patient data flow is paramount.
Interoperability in healthcare involves several key elements, including standards, financial and clinical incentives, privacy and security, rules of engagement, and the adoption and optimization of electronic health records (EHRs) and health information exchange (HIE) services. Interoperable health IT encompasses a wide variety of electronic tools that can help clinicians access up-to-date evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Interoperability is important in healthcare because it promotes patient education, increases the quality of care received, improves healthcare efficiency, and even financial incentivization. During the COVID-19 epidemic, home-based treatment for individuals with chronic conditions was critical. Many patients could capture specific physiological characteristics and wirelessly communicate that healthcare data to their medical record, where physicians could access and monitor it, thanks to interoperable medical devices.
The United States government is committed to increasing health data exchange and investing in interoperability. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published the CMS Interoperability and Patient Access Final Rule, establishing policies that advance interoperability and access to health information for all stakeholders.
