The Value Of Health Care Information Exchange And Interoperability

TLDR

The study evaluates the value of electronic health‑care information exchange and interoperability among providers and ancillary services. The authors developed an HIEI taxonomy and a cost‑benefit model that integrates published evidence and expert opinion. Fully standardized HIEI could generate an annual net value of $77.8 billion, with nonstandardized systems yielding smaller gains, and the additional clinical benefits suggest a strong business case for nationwide adoption.

Abstract

In this paper we assess the value of electronic health care information exchange and interoperability (HIEI) between providers (hospitals and medical group practices) and independent laboratories, radiology centers, pharmacies, payers, public health departments, and other providers. We have created an HIEI taxonomy and combined published evidence with expert opinion in a cost-benefit model. Fully standardized HIEI could yield a net value of $77.8 billion per year once fully implemented. Nonstandardized HIEI offers smaller positive financial returns. The clinical impact of HIEI for which quantitative estimates cannot yet be made would likely add further value. A compelling business case exists for national implementation of fully standardized HIEI.