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Health Information Exchange

 

 

The THINC eXchange is a health information exchange (HIE) sponsored by THINC and powered by MedAllies. THINC is the community-based, not-for-profit organization responsible for sponsoring the HIE in the Hudson Valley. MedAllies is the technology vendor with whom THINC works to build and operate the THINC eXchange.

 

Information recorded by the provider during a patient encounter is provided to the THINC eXchange by ambulatory practices. Hospitals provide information upon patient discharge. The information is in the form of a Continuity of Care Document (CCD) created in the EHR system in accordance with IHE standards. The CCD contains data such as patient demographics, problem and consolidated medication lists, allergies and other relevant information available at the time of encounter or discharge.

 

Benefits of the Exchange

 

·         Information follows the patient. While a provider's EHR or paper-based records provide information on care the patient received in his or her office, the THINC eXchange can provide information on care received across the Hudson Valley, including data about hospitalizations, specialist visits and visits to primary care providers.

 

·         Immediate access. In an emergency, patient data is available even if the patient cannot provide it. In an ambulatory setting, the delays that often occur in obtaining reports on referred cases can be avoided.

 

·         Accuracy. Information accessed through the eXchange can reduce the risk for error inherent in relying on information provided verbally by a patient.

 

·         Efficiency. With a few mouse clicks, a provider can see what tests and screenings have been performed (and their results), reducing the possibility of unnecessary testing. Less time must be devoted to collecting information through faxes, phone calls and photocopied records.

 

Information available through the THINC eXchange

 

Information available through the THINC eXchange includes

 

·         Patient demographics

·         Insurance information

·         Allergies

·         Medications–current and history

·         Diagnoses

·         Visits

·         Procedures

  

Patient consent

All participating entities and organizations must obtain patient consent prior to accessing that patient’s information via the THINC eXchange (except in an emergency situation).

 

Ensuring security

 

The THINC eXchange adheres to federal and state standards to ensure that confidentiality, privacy and security are fully protected and that only authorized individuals can access information. THINC runs the HIE in accordance with the guidance put forth by the New York e-Health Collaborative and approved by the New York State Department of Health General Counsel’s office. It is compliant with federal (HIPAA) and state privacy and security requirements. Encryption, password protection, the ability to track every viewer activity and similar measures protect against unauthorized access to patient data.

 Learn more

To find out how you can participate in THINC eXchange or to obtain more detailed information, please review the following documents: