The adoption and sharing of electronic health information - whether referenced as a Regional Health Information Organizations (RHIO), the Nationwide Health Information Network (NHIN), or a Health Information Exchanges (HIE) - is perhaps the most discussed topic in the health industry. The question is no longer 'if' electronic health information is essential, but 'how' to successfully establish and sustain the appropriate governance and infrastructure necessary to allow pragmatic and relevant access to health information for all stakeholders.
Currently, there are two major initiatives in Georgia moving forward to establish the state as a leader in health information exchange. At the state level, the Department of Community Health has established the Georgia Health Information Technology and Transparency Advisory Board "to provide leadership and encouragement in developing collaborative statewide initiatives that enhance the quality, safety and transparency of health care by promoting cost-effective and secure adoption of information technology". DCH, through the GA Health Information Exchange pilot program, has issued grants to four communities across the state to further the objectives of improving adoption of health information technology and empowerment of consumers through information. The Georgia Health Information Exchange (GHIE), a not-for-profit entity that has broad representation from the health care provider and payer community, is focused on creating a state-wide approach to health information exchange initiatives through projects that enhance health care quality and efficiency.
HIMSS (Health Information and Management Systems Society) is a visible supporter of furthering the goals of health information technology adoption and collaboration. Since 2006, HIMSS has worked with the eHealth Initiative (eHI), which provides research, education and implementation roadmaps for health information exchange organizations. The HIMSS 2008 Annual Conference has over thirty-five sessions devoted to RHIO/HIE topics, including a RHIO/HIE Symposium. HIMSS also sponsors the IHE (Integrating the Health Enterprise) Connectathon which provides health information technology vendors an opportunity to test and demonstrate standards based interoperability.
We would like to extend a special invitation to become a part of this effort. Any member involved with or interested in RHIO, Health Information Exchange or cross-boundary Health IT initiatives is encouraged to become a member of the RHIO Workgroup of Georgia HIMSS. Please contact Janis Leonard or Cynthia Windsor for additional information or to express your interest in becoming a founding member. You are invited to attend the March 26, 2008 Georgia HIMSS chapter meeting for further discussion and planning.
RHIO Workgroup Mission:
The primary mission of the GA HIMSS RHIO Workgroup is to provide critical networking and educational opportunities that enhance the success of electronic health information adoption and exchange on both a local and national level.
Objectives:
- To provide an opportunity for sharing information, view points and experiences;
- To identify areas of special interest and facilitate the emergence of these topics within the health information exchange arena;
- To effectively communicate with and support the initiatives and efforts of RHIOs and HIEs locally and nationally;
- To provide structured educational opportunities of interest;
- To provide opportunities to actively participate in HIMSS Society activities and collaborate with other HIT professionals.
RHIO Workgroup Focus:
Site Visits and Demonstration
