GRAND RAPIDS – Michigan Health Connect, the state’s largest health information exchange, and Michiana Health Information Network, one of the most mature HIEs in the nation serving healthcare providers in Indiana and Michigan, have announced a partnership to share information vital to patient health.
?This connection to Michigan Health Connect allows important health information to follow patients, regardless of geography,? said Tim Roberts, chief executive officer of Michiana Health Information Network. ?As an HIE that rests near the border of two neighboring states, it is so important for us to extend our mission to those patients who cross these borders for care every day.?
Doug Dietzman, executive director of Michigan Health Connect, said such collaboration between states provides more timely and efficient care for patients, giving physicians current and historical health information that can speed diagnosis and treatment.
Both HIEs are uniquely positioned to expand secure communication across state lines. Earlier this year, Michigan Health Connect implemented secure exchange with Ohio, and Michiana Health Information Network established a cross-state immunization exchange with the Michigan Care Improvement Registry. Both plan to grow interstate connectivity with HIEs across the nation as national standards and protocols evolve.
?We know people seek care and providers work with hospitals and other providers across state lines,? Dietzman said. ?Health information exchange cannot stop at artificial county, state or regional boundaries but must follow patients and the providers who care for them to ensure the best possible quality outcomes and efficiency.?
?Electronic communication means we can get comprehensive, life-saving information to medical professionals at any location faster than ever before,? Roberts said.
The partnership replaces non-electronic communications ? faxing, telephone calls or mail ? with faster, more comprehensive, standardized, HIPAA-compliant electronic messaging among authorized physicians and personnel. That means physicians have information when and where they need it.
