Information blocking has, over the years, become a significant barrier to achieving seamless data exchange in healthcare. Patients, providers, and healthcare organizations have been affected in one way or another, with limited access to health information, which could affect the quality of care delivery.
With recent updates to the rules governing information blocking, healthcare stakeholders are starting to get more clarity on the topic. However, there are still numerous uncertainties surrounding information blocking. Therefore, this article aims to unravel information blocking FAQs and provide readers with insights on what they need to know.
What is information blocking?
Information blocking refers to any practice that unreasonably restricts the access, exchange, or use of electronic health information (EHI). The practice can be carried out by health IT developers, providers, health information exchanges (HIEs), health information networks (HINs), and health plans.
What are the penalties for information blocking?
The rules governing information blocking state that there will be potential financial penalties for healthcare providers, developers, and other covered entities that practice information blocking. The enforcement of these rules began on April 5, 2021.
What are the exceptions to information blocking?
The rules governing information blocking specify eight exceptions that do not constitute information blocking. These exceptions include preventing harm, privacy, and security, and recovering reasonable costs. Additionally, providers are not obligated to fulfill a request that is not in line with their privacy policies.
Does information blocking apply to all types of health information?
The information blocking rule applies to electronic health information (EHI). EHI is defined as electronic protected health information (ePHI) that comes under the category established in HIPAA. EHI also includes any information used to make decisions regarding an individual’s healthcare.
What are the benefits of reducing information blocking?
Reducing information blocking has several potential benefits for healthcare stakeholders. These benefits include improved coordination of care, improved quality of care, reduced healthcare costs, and better health outcomes for patients.
To conclude, information blocking has been a significant barrier to seamless data exchange in healthcare, potentially affecting the quality of care delivery. With the updated rules governing information blocking, healthcare stakeholders have more clarity on the topic. Reducing information blocking has numerous potential benefits, including improved coordination of care, improved quality of care, reduced healthcare costs, and better health outcomes for patients.
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