Preparing for Information Blocking Compliance in October 2022: A Guide for Healthcare Providers

Introduction

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, one of the major challenges healthcare providers face is information blocking. Information blocking refers to practices that prevent the transfer of electronic patient health information (ePHI) between different healthcare providers or systems. While some practices are acceptable under current rules, others will become illegal in October 2022 under the 21st Century Cures Act.

With the deadline for compliance approaching, healthcare providers need to start preparing for the changes. This guide is designed to help providers understand what information blocking is, why it’s a problem, and how to prepare for compliance.

What is Information Blocking?

Information blocking occurs when healthcare providers, health IT developers, or health information exchanges (HIEs) knowingly interfere with the exchange of ePHI. This can happen for many reasons, including financial gain, competitive advantage, or simply lack of cooperation.

Under the 21st Century Cures Act, information blocking is illegal and subject to penalties, including fines and exclusion from Medicare and Medicaid programs. The law aims to promote interoperability between different healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes by increasing access to their health information.

Why is Information Blocking a Problem?

Information blocking can cause serious harm to patients and limit the effectiveness of healthcare services. When healthcare providers don’t have access to a patient’s complete medical history, they may prescribe medications that are ineffective or even harmful. Patients may also receive duplicate exams or tests, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Moreover, information blocking can lead to fragmentation of healthcare systems, making it difficult for providers to share data and collaborate on patient care. This can result in delays in treatment, missed diagnoses, and other negative outcomes.

How to Prepare for Compliance with Information Blocking Rules

Preparing for compliance with information blocking rules requires a comprehensive approach that involves technology, policies, and training. Here are some key steps that healthcare providers can take to prepare for compliance:

1. Review your current policies and procedures: Healthcare providers should review their existing policies and procedures to identify any practices that may be considered information blocking. This could include policies that restrict access to patient information or require patients to pay fees to access their records.

2. Evaluate your technology: Providers should also evaluate their technology systems to ensure that they support interoperability and the exchange of ePHI. They can also consider implementing data standards, such as FHIR, to facilitate data exchange between different systems.

3. Train your staff: Healthcare providers should provide training to their staff on the new information blocking rules and how to comply with them. This could include training on how to access patient information, how to use new technology systems, and how to avoid practices that are considered information blocking.

Conclusion

Information blocking is a serious problem in healthcare that can have negative effects on patient outcomes and healthcare systems as a whole. With the compliance deadline approaching in October 2022, it’s important for healthcare providers to take steps to prepare for the changes. By reviewing policies and procedures, evaluating technology systems, and training staff, providers can ensure that they comply with the new rules and continue to provide quality care to their patients.

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