The electronic directories would allow providers to engage in “smooth” information exchanges in cases where the sender and receiver know each other. Providers can also use the directories to electronically view basic information about the receiving provider, such as the organization’s name, address and contact, as well as its exchange capabilities and security credentials. The group will develop recommendations for individual provider directories.
The panel has also approved recommendations for governing “rules of the road” for the Nationwide Health Information Network, which is a set of standards and services that ensures healthcare providers exchange patient health information securely over the information network. The recommendations include rules of behavior and technical operations that will ensure privacy and security of NHIN.
Read the news report about provider directories and NHIN.
Read other coverage about the Health IT Policy Committee:
– Government Health IT Panel Develops Quality Measures for Stage 2 Meaningful Use
