Common Myths and Misconceptions About Information Blocking: FAQs Answered

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Information Blocking: FAQs Answered

Introduction:
In today’s world, data privacy and security have become crucial aspects of our lives. The health IT community has been actively working on improving data accessibility and interoperability for providers, patients, and healthcare organizations. Information blocking is one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted areas of healthcare IT. In this article, we will investigate the most common misconceptions about information blocking and clear up any confusion regarding its significance.

Myth #1: Information Blocking is Legal
One of the most common misconceptions surrounding information blocking is that it is legal. On the contrary, in 2020, Section 4004 of the 21st Century Cures Act went into effect, making it illegal for any healthcare organization to practice information blocking. This includes all actors who maintain, receive, exchange, or use electronic health information. Failure to comply can lead to severe penalties and legal action from the federal government.

Myth #2: Information Blocking is Only Concerning Patient Data
Another common misconception is that information blocking only applies to patient data. This is not accurate. Section 4004 of the 21st Century Cures Act applies to all electronic health information, including but not limited to patient health information, clinical notes, lab results, and imaging studies. Information blocking is any practice that interferes with the access, exchange, or use of electronic health information.

Myth #3: Information Blocking is the Same as Data Security
Data security and information blocking are two distinct concepts that are often conflated. Information blocking is any practice that makes it difficult or impossible to share electronic health information. Data security is ensuring that electronic health information is protected from unauthorized access and theft. While data security is crucial, it should not be used as an excuse for information blocking.

Myth #4: Health IT Vendors are the Only Ones Responsible for Information Blocking
The responsibility for preventing information blocking falls on all healthcare providers. This means all the actors who maintain, receive, exchange, or use electronic health information, including hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers, must ensure that electronic health information is accessible and interoperable. Health IT vendors must also design, develop and make available certified health IT that is interoperable.

Conclusion:
Clearing up the myths and misconceptions surrounding information blocking is crucial for the healthcare IT community’s success. The implementation of Section 4004 of the 21st Century Cures Act seeks to increase transparency, accessibility, and interoperability of electronic health information for providers and patients. Healthcare organizations should prioritize the sharing of electronic health information, ensure compliance with the law, and work towards better interoperability.

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