Slide Presentation of the 2007 Annual Meeting of AHRQ

Solution Strategies—cont'd

• Legal focus:
  • Consistent and comprehensive statewide interpretation of HIPAA
  • Identification of state laws and regulations needing modernization to create compliance with HIPAA
  • Lobby for creation of safe harbors
• Regional focus:
  • Medical service area analysis
  • Coordination with border states, starting with Missouri
    • Immunization registries
    • CareEntrust initiative by employers

Notes:

Legally focused solution strategies

Background:
LWG found broader legal concerns from the scenarios presented than were identified by stakeholders
HIPAA often used as an excuse to restrict HIE
Perception of HIPAA as a "barrier" is misplaced
HIPAA could be transformed from "barrier" into an "aid" If:
State laws and regulations were modernization in order to marry state law with HIPAA.
Providers and consumers receive education regarding the correct interpretation of HIPAA.
This will decrease confusion among providers and consumers

Regionally focused solution strategies
Medical service area analysis (KHPA)
Coordinate with the Missouri Governor's Technology Taskforce
Work with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to extend the reach of both states' immunization registries.