How Information Blocking Examples are Impacting Healthcare
When it comes to healthcare, information is key. It’s not only important for doctors to have a patient’s medical history, but also for patients to have access to their own health data. Unfortunately, there are instances where healthcare providers and organizations may engage in information blocking, which can negatively impact patient care. In this article, we’ll explore some examples of information blocking in healthcare and the consequences associated with it.
What is Information Blocking?
Information blocking occurs when electronic health information is willfully and unreasonably withheld by a healthcare provider or organization. The information that is being blocked can be anything from a patient’s medical history to test results. This is done to prevent the exchange of electronic health information between different providers or systems. Essentially, it’s the deliberate act of obstructing access to patient health data.
Information Blocking Examples
One of the most prominent examples of information blocking occurred with the electronic health records (EHR) vendor, Epic. In 2015, Epic prevented several hospitals from sharing information with each other, which negatively affected patient care. As a result, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) investigated and found Epic guilty of information blocking.
Another example is when a hospital system used a third-party vendor that charged a high fee for releasing patient records. This made it difficult for patients to obtain their own health data, which is not only frustrating but can also be detrimental to their healthcare.
Consequences
The consequences of information blocking are vast. Patients can miss out on important care opportunities, resulting in negative health outcomes. For example, if a patient is referred to a specialist but their medical history is not shared due to information blocking, the specialist may not have all the necessary information to provide the best care. This can lead to delays in treatment or incorrect diagnoses.
Information blocking can also lead to inefficiencies in healthcare, which can result in higher costs for patients and providers. The inability to share information electronically can lead to duplicated tests and procedures that are not necessary, resulting in higher costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, information blocking in healthcare can have severe consequences for patients, providers, and the healthcare system as a whole. By sharing electronic health information, patients can receive the best possible care, and providers can avoid unnecessary costs and inefficiencies. It’s essential for healthcare providers and organizations to prioritize the sharing of health information to improve patient outcomes, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs.
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