What You Need to Know
Health information exchange systems have been in development nationwide since a federal law was passed in 2009 to promote the electronic movement and use of health information among health care providers. North Carolina’s new, modernized health information exchange, now called NC HealthConnex, brings added value to conversations happening at all levels in the health care industry. It breaks down information silos between providers, achieves greater outcomes for patients and creates efficiencies in state-funded health care programs such as Medicaid. Many other states have been operating health information exchanges for years and are seeing successes in improving patient care.
What is NC HealthConnex?
NC HealthConnex is a secure computer system for doctors, hospitals and other health care providers to share information that can improve your care. The system links your key medical information from all of your health care providers to create a single, electronic patient health record.
How does it work?
NC HealthConnex helps health care providers quickly access the information they need to make more informed decisions about your care, especially in an emergency. Health care providers already share patient health records through fax, email and mail when needed for your care. NC HealthConnex makes receiving information easier, faster and more secure. Without using NC HealthConnex, health care providers see only the information they have entered into your medical record. However, with NC HealthConnex, they see a more complete record, enabling them to provide you with the best care possible.
What does it mean to be part of NC HealthConnex?
As a patient, it means having peace of mind when visiting a new health care provider whose office participates in NC HealthConnex. If your information has been uploaded before, your new provider will be able to access that data. This means they can spend less time taking down your history and spend more time treating you. NC HealthConnex helps improve health care through:
- Better coordination between health care providers
- Fewer medical errors
- Improved patient safety and health outcomes
- Fewer repeat tests and procedures
- Less paperwork
- Reduced health care costs
- Faster identification and reporting of public health threats