In recent years, healthcare in the United States has seen a shift towards better cooperation and patient access. This change has been guided by regulatory efforts such as the 21st Century Cures Act (Cures Act). The Cures Act focuses on making health information more accessible to patients while promoting connections between Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems.
This article examines the effects of the 21st Century Cures Act Final Rule on Health IT certification and its role in helping patients access their health information. This information is particularly relevant for medical practice administrators, owners, and IT managers in the United States.
The 21st Century Cures Act, passed in 2016, aims to improve healthcare delivery through effective health information technology. The Final Rule associated with this Act has two primary goals: improving interoperability and ensuring that patients can easily access their electronic health information (EHI).
As of April 2021, healthcare providers must provide patients with quick and free access to their health data, as dictated by the Final Rule.
The function of Health IT certification in the context of the Cures Act is vital. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) has outlined standards and requirements for EHRs to qualify as certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT).
For practice administrators and IT managers, understanding these certification requirements is critical. Failure to comply can lead to financial consequences. For instance, hospitals not meeting CEHRT standards may face penalties under the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program, impacting their reimbursements.
The movement towards improved patient access under the Cures Act is significant. The Act requires that patients can access their complete electronic health information quickly and at no cost.
While this transparency push is generally positive, it does bring challenges:
As healthcare providers adjust to the changes brought by the 21st Century Cures Act, technology integration in administrative processes is essential.
To improve efficiency and meet compliance needs, healthcare organizations can use advancements in technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) and workflow automation solutions.
AI technologies can improve communication in healthcare settings. By automating front-office tasks like patient inquiries, scheduling, and service information, practices can become more efficient. This allows healthcare staff to prioritize direct patient care over administrative duties.
For example, Simbo AI focuses on automating front-office phone communication, enabling healthcare workers to concentrate more on patient care. Patients are informed about their health data, appointments, and questions in real time without waiting for a staff member. This aligns with the goals of the Cures Act, creating an environment where patients can quickly access their health information.
AI also helps manage large amounts of patient data efficiently. It can monitor compliance with the Cures Act by automatically updating EHR systems and making sure all data meets regulatory standards. This approach helps maintain patient data security, preventing issues that can lead to penalties.
Using AI analytics tools enables practice administrators to effectively assess their compliance status concerning the Cures Act. By identifying trends and potential challenges early, they can make timely adjustments to keep their organizations proactive.
The combination of AI and healthcare processes leads not just to operational savings but also to better patient engagement. Patients now expect digital tools to help them manage their healthcare. AI can facilitate this by providing personalized communications, simplifying appointment scheduling, and ensuring that important health information is readily available, as required by the Cures Act.
The enactment and ongoing adjustments to the 21st Century Cures Act and its regulations represent an important shift for health IT.
As the healthcare system evolves, so will the standards governing EHR technology and patient engagement. The ONC and CMS are likely to introduce improvements as technology progresses and stakeholder needs change.
Practice administrators and IT managers should stay informed to ensure compliance with these developments. Staying connected through education, industry forums, and updates is essential for remaining competitive and compliant.
As the Cures Act’s goals become clearer, administrators should think about how to improve healthcare access. Ensuring fair access to information and care options is crucial in today’s healthcare system. Implementing policies that support fairness and transparency will align with regulations and build trust with patients.
The 21st Century Cures Act Final Rule changes how healthcare organizations in the United States address interoperability and patient access to health information. For medical practice administrators, owners, and IT managers, navigating this changing environment demands ongoing education, technology integration, and a focus on patient access. As the healthcare sector adapts to new standards, the objective should be to utilize technology effectively while ensuring inclusive patient interactions. The progress made signals an ongoing journey towards a more integrated and patient-focused healthcare system in the United States.
Simbo is making doctors' and patients' lives better. Connect now to know more.
Schedule Demo Now© Since 2019, Simbo AI.
