Strategies for Complying with New ONC Data Sharing Rules, Including Collaborative Documentation

Providers are just beginning to grapple with new rules that shift the way the healthcare system shares data – moving from a system where healthcare organizations may share data under HIPAA to one where they must share data. New rules outlined in the 21st Century Cures Act (Act) and by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) at the Department of Health and Human Services took effect on April 5, 2021 that, among other things, allow patients to access information in their patient record, including clinical or medical notes prepared by the provider. Additional changes will take effect in 2022 and 2023.

Most providers will need to rethink the way they approach documentation. And these new rules may be the perfect opportunity to implement Collaborative Documentation, an approach that allows clinicians to document the clinical record with the patient present and contributing to the process. The results extend far beyond the record itself too often include improved client engagement, reduced no/show cancellations, improved medication adherence and enhanced quality of clinician work life.

Joe Parks, MD and Vice President of Practice Improvement and Medical Director for the National Council provided an overview of the current and new rules.

Michael Flora, Senior Management and Operations Consultant at MTM Services and an expert on Collaborative Documentation, reviewed clinical strategies for maximizing the opportunity presented by the new rules.

Valerie Westhead, MD MTM Services’ Medical Operations Consultant, offered guidance for prescribers.