Advice for a RHIO in the beginning stage...

Question:

"A group of community stakeholders in a suburban region will begin the conversation of establishing a RHIO for our region.  The conversation had been dormant until the Healthcare Executive article appeared.  Would you have any critical advice to provide the group in it's very beginning stages?  Any advise as to areas to address in the early stages (monetary gains, politics, vendors)?"

Answer:

The first thing I would suggest is for each of the stakeholder representatives read the HIMSS Guide for Establishing a RHIO because it is comprehensive and helps readers explore the considerations from the ground up.  You may also be interested in a new Practice Brief on HIE from AHIMA.

 

The second thing I would do is communicate and ensure that all have a common vision of your HIE.  Then communicate some more and ensure that there are shared goals and a commitment on the part of all involved to true collaboration.

 

Lastly, look at leadership.  Who will be leading this effort?  Is it an individual(s) that can truly put aside their own individual interests to focus on the HIE's needs.  Is it an individual(s) who has passion for this community collaborative to improve the electronic exchange of health information?  If either of these answers are "no", I suggest regrouping until you can say "yes".

From here, your HIE will be in the best position to address the multitude of other issues and questions that arise.  Best wishes and give me an update on your progress from time-to-time!

Comments

[Peter Durkson]

Aloha,

We're starting to map a Maui Connected Care System i.e a hybrid RHIO which will create but reach beyond a Maui health information exchange to include the quality of life and aging concepts of
Joseph Coughlin at MIT's AgeLab.

QUESTION: Are you aware of any recent books on RHIOs which might help us?

Thank you,
[email protected]

[Christina]

The best I've seen is the one by the collaborative team of HIMSS member professionals. Although I am a bit partial, because of my role, it is still the best I've seen.

http://marketplace.himss.org/acct618b/Default.aspx?tabid=44&action=INVProductDetails&args=820&BookTitle=HIMSS%20Store%20-%20Guide%20to%20Establishing%20a%20RHIO

Thanks for asking!