Health Information Technology

Ideally, all members of a health care team —- physicians, hospitals, labs — should be able to use HIT and EHRs to share patient information through a secure network, a process called interoperability.

Health Information Exchange (HIE) can be accomplished in different ways, and the needs and requirements vary by practice.

The recently updated TMA EHR Vendor Comparison Tool provides TMA member physicians access to an assessment of EHR products that have a solid Texas market base. It gives physicians a view of company information, product functionality, pricing, and interoperability capabilities when comparing EHR systems.

Central Texas Colon and Rectal Surgeons had its electronic health record (EHR) integration with the state’s prescription monitoring program (PMP) in place for fewer than two days before managing partner David Fleeger, MD, saw how it could stop drug diversion and patients on the hunt for medication they don’t need.

A mandate for physicians to check the PMP before prescribing opioids and three other drug classes looms later this year. Dr. Fleeger’s practice got ahead of the game in March, when an EHR update added a connection to PMP Aware, the prescription drug database the Texas State Board of Pharmacy maintains.

The change is inevitable in the coming year for physicians already using EHRs to participate in Medicare or Medicaid incentive payment programs. Most practices are using the 2014 version. Beginning in 2019, physicians must use 2015 CEHRT for the 2019 performance period, which ultimately determines their payment.

With the DocbookMD mobile app, a regional network of physician colleagues is at your fingertips for consultation, referrals, and HIPAA-compliant information exchange - all in the blink of an eye. Download for iPhone, iPad, or Android now.

It probably goes without saying that technology is an integral part of modern health care.

But how can you be sure you’re getting the best deal from your technology vendor?

You can’t be absolutely sure of course, but a few modifications to your vendor contract can help you avoid much of the risk associated with buying technology.

TMA works diligently to give you the tools you need to tackle the challenges of technology. Whether you need help selecting an electronic health record (EHR) or understanding MACRA or the EHR incentive program, TMA has the resources.

This is a good time to review and update contingency plans so your practice will be prepared if patient information is not available at the point of care. Your cyber risk management plan should include proactive compliance with federal and state medical privacy laws, and appropriate cyber insurance to pay any direct and indirect costs.