The healthcare system in the United States is changing, particularly regarding how patients access their health information. Technological advancements are reshaping the industry, and legislation like the Cures Act Final Rule is important in driving these changes. This regulatory framework helps improve patient engagement, ensures equal access to electronic health information, and prevents information blocking.
The 21st Century Cures Act, signed into law in December 2016, aimed to speed up medical product development and make innovations reach patients faster. Among its provisions, the Cures Act focused on improving the interoperability of health information systems and ensuring patients can access their electronic health information (EHI).
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) developed the Cures Act Final Rule, which sets standards for the electronic exchange of health information. This rule requires healthcare providers and payers to share data with patients in formats that are easy to access through mobile applications and other digital platforms. This approach helps patients engage more effectively with their healthcare and improves health outcomes.
As of 2022, about 73% of people reported being offered online access to their medical records, a 24% increase from 2020. At the same time, 57% accessed their records at least once, reflecting a 50% increase during the same period. This growth in online health information usage shows a clear demand for more accessible healthcare data.
Patient portals and smartphone applications have become essential tools. They allow patients to view test results, clinical notes, and other important health information conveniently. Approximately 90% of people who accessed their online medical records did so mainly to view test results, showing how these tools are key in patient engagement.
Despite these advancements, barriers still exist in access to electronic health information, especially among different racial and ethnic groups. Studies have shown that Black and Hispanic individuals are less likely to be offered or access patient portals compared to white individuals. Addressing these gaps is important to ensure fair access to health information for everyone.
The Cures Act Final Rule not only serves as a framework for sharing information but also impacts patient experience. When healthcare organizations comply with this rule, they create a more informed patient population, which can lead to better health outcomes. Access to health information allows patients to make informed choices about their care, align health goals with treatment plans, and manage their healthcare proactively.
Furthermore, the Interoperability and Patient Access final rule from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires health plans to share claims data electronically through a Patient Access API. This enables patients to easily connect with their Medicare claims data through their preferred applications, improving their overall experience with healthcare technology.
A key element of the Cures Act Final Rule is the emphasis on preventing information blocking. This practice can restrict patients’ access to health information and disrupt care continuity, which can lead to poorer patient outcomes. The rule outlines acceptable practices regarding health information exchange to help eliminate barriers to data sharing between providers.
Healthcare administrators and IT managers should understand the importance of following these regulations. The consequences of information blocking can be serious, and knowing how to comply can protect healthcare organizations from legal issues.
Racial and ethnic disparities in access to health information are well-documented, highlighting ongoing inequalities within the U.S. healthcare system. A study using data from the Health Information National Trends Survey found that patients from minority groups faced restrictions accessing patient portals. The ONC stresses the importance of encouraging patients to use these tools. Those encouraged by healthcare providers are more likely to log in to their patient portals and utilize their features.
Healthcare organizations can help reduce these disparities by promoting access to patient portals in underserved populations. Possible strategies include creating educational resources for minority communities, training healthcare staff to assist patients in understanding patient portal features, and using culturally competent communication to build trust.
The use of application programming interfaces (APIs) is essential to the Cures Act initiative. By implementing standards-based APIs, healthcare providers can significantly enhance the accessibility of EHI. Patients can manage their health data from multiple sources in one place through various health applications.
This shift toward integrating technology offers opportunities for innovation in healthcare. Collecting health information from different platforms allows healthcare administrators and IT managers to provide patients with a comprehensive view of their health, which may lead to better decision-making and personalized care.
For example, popular health applications like MyChart and HealthVault can integrate health records from various providers. These applications enable patients to upload their data and manage their health more effectively. Helping patients in this way may support better adherence to treatment plans and improve clinical outcomes.
AI technologies are changing the healthcare sector, significantly enhancing patient engagement and access to health information. AI can improve workflows in front-office operations, making communication between patients and healthcare providers more efficient.
For instance, AI-powered chatbots can manage many patient inquiries related to health records, appointment scheduling, and medication refills. This allows patients to receive quick responses, especially during busy times when staff may be overwhelmed.
Additionally, voice recognition technology can improve electronic health record (EHR) systems’ efficiency. By using voice commands, clinicians can document patient interactions more quickly. This reduces administrative tasks and helps providers spend more time with patients, improving the quality of care.
AI can analyze large amounts of patient data to identify trends and predict behaviors. For example, predictive analytics can help healthcare organizations foresee when patients may need increased support, leading to more proactive engagement. Integrating AI into workflows can ensure timely communication and enhance the patient experience.
While the Cures Act Final Rule has established a foundation for progress in patient access to health information, continued efforts are necessary to improve engagement further. Stakeholders in healthcare organizations must actively address technological challenges and work toward equal access for all patients.
Training healthcare staff on both the ethical and practical aspects of using patient portals is essential. Organizations should also seek feedback from patients about their experiences with digital health tools. Understanding patients’ needs and preferences can help healthcare administrators refine their approach to improving engagement.
As the healthcare environment evolves, using technology, including AI, will be vital for giving patients control over their health data and enhancing overall healthcare delivery. The move toward interoperability and accessible health information is an important step in providing quality care that is both patient-focused and inclusive.
Healthcare administrators, practice owners, and IT managers in the United States have a chance to utilize the provisions outlined in the Cures Act Final Rule. By adopting these changes and using innovative technologies, they can improve patient engagement, streamline processes, and promote health equity. These efforts can lead to better health outcomes and a more connected healthcare system for all Americans.
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