Physicians will be able to electronically share patient information more broadly now that the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology has released version 2 of the United States Core Data for Interoperability (USCDI).
The USCDI is a standardized set of health data classes (for example, Allergies and Intolerances) and data elements (such as patient demographics) for interoperable health information exchange nationwide. The latest version includes new data classes and elements that support electronic sharing of social determinants of health, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other information related to a patient’s visit and health.
The USCDI establishes the baseline set of data that physicians and other practitioners commonly exchange across care settings. Certified electronic health record (EHR) systems – typically required for Medicare and Medicaid payment incentives – require EHR vendors to update their technology to include at least version 1 of the USCDI, per the 2015 Edition Cures Update for electronic health records.
However, Joseph Schneider, MD, former chair of the Texas Medical Association’s Committee on Health Information Technology, clarifies that while the USCDI is extensive, “it is important to note that physicians are not required to capture all data elements, as some will not be relevant to every patient and visit.”
Questions about office technologies may be directed to TMA’s Health Information Technology Department by calling (800) 880-5720 or by email.
Last Updated On
July 21, 2021
Originally Published On
July 21, 2021