The Importance of Complying with Electronic Health Information Expansion

In October 2022, the definition of electronic health information (EHI) expanded from the data elements contained in the United States Core Data for Interoperability (USCDI) version 1 to all electronic data as defined in the designated record set (DRS). The EHI expansion has created some challenges to health information (HI) professionals to comply with the requirements.

The Journal of AHIMA spoke with AHIMA Senior Director of Regulatory & International Affairs Andrew Tomlinson about the importance of understanding the change and how organizations can remain in compliance.

Q: What have been some of the challenges created since October 2022 when the definition of electronic health information expanded?

A: Challenges related to the expansion of the EHI definition were not as widespread as some feared. Proper preparation from clinician organizations ensured they were ready to understand what parts of their designated record set were maintained electronically. If they did encounter challenges, it most likely fell into the areas of understanding how to operationalize the expansion. 

Q: Why is this latest change important to health information (HI) professionals and their organizations?

A: EHI expansion is a provision of the information blocking final rule released by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) and is required under information blocking. This expansion will change how organizations comply with these rules and what information they are required to exchange when receiving an electronic request. 

Q: What should HI professionals do to make sure their EHI data policies are ready and compliant?

A: HI professionals will hopefully have already done their preparation and action to maintain compliance with information blocking rules. If they are still working to narrow their compliance gap, I'd recommend they review their DRS policies and ensure they understand what section of that policy is stored electronically. Those looking for a place to start if they are still in the midst of compliance activities can find guidance in the AHIMA joint final report on operationalizing EHI and in the AHIMA EHI Training Series.

Q: What are some recommendations to help HI professionals ensure compliance and make the process smooth for healthcare organizations?

A: I'd recommend organizations review the report AHIMA released in companion with AMIA [American Medical Informatics Association] and the EHRA [Electronic Health Record Association] on operationalizing the definition of EHI. This report takes into account the scope of where EHI may reside in a provider organization and provides recommendations on how to make that data actionable in relation to ONC requirements. It will serve as a great starting point for organizations looking for guidance on how to get started in these activities.

Damon Adams is content production editor for AHIMA.