On this episode of Quality Matters, we explore the growing importance of Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) and Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs) with Laura McCrary, President and CEO of KONZA National Network. Laura discusses the pivotal role these systems play in quality care, enabling the secure and efficient sharing of medical records across diverse networks. By advancing the digitalization and interoperability of health data, these networks enhance patient safety and care coordination.

We explore how integrating claims data with clinical data enhances quality, underscoring the critical importance of trusted networks for data exchange. Laura dispels common myths surrounding HIEs and QHINs, while offering practical tips for health care organizations curious about connecting to these essential systems.

Additionally, we examine national efforts to expand connectivity and ensure that all health care organizations are part of a growing, robust data infrastructure. This episode serves as a handy guide for how to leverage HIEs and QHINs to participate in more capable and coordinated health care ecosystem.

Key Quote: 

“There is a lot more information available. It really is both a blessing and a curse. In the past, there was no information available for the doctor. Now there's so much. The first problem was how did we actually move the data from Florida, say, to New York? It's been solved through QHINs. As we solve one problem, we've created a new one, which is there's too much information available. We've got to address this new problem.”

-Laura McCrary, Ed.D

Time Stamps:

• (01:48) Challenges and Change in Data Exchange
• (03:48) Myths and Realities of HIEs and QHINs
• (07:35) Connecting Different Kinds of Data
• (10:27) Dimensions of Trust
• (14:29) Reducing Burden with Digital Measurement
• (16:06) Future of HIEs and QHINs

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Links:

NCQA resources on digital quality

Learn about KONZA

Connect with Laura