Business
Statewide RHIO launched in Delaware
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted April 16, 2007
The Delaware Health Information Network, the first known statewide health information exchange, went live to a core group of users on March 29. The users -- three hospital systems and five physician practices -- now have the ability to deliver and receive lab results, radiology reports, admission and discharge data electronically. The reports can be delivered via fax, the Web or placed into a physician's electronic records system.
Project manager Gina Perez said the core group consists of practices at all levels of technology, including one that is still paper-based.
Eventually, the network will have a record locator system, and developers plan to offer a patient portal, insurance claims submission services and public health reporting of contagious diseases and chronic disease management services.
The Delaware RHIO was made possible by a $4.7 million federal grant, a $2 million state grant with $2 million in matching funds from the three participating hospital systems and others. The state has appropriated $3 million for the next fiscal year beginning in July, which will also be matched.
Perez said the commission received secure commitments, including financial, from the participating entities before moving forward with the project. The DHIN's commission will work toward a long-term financial plan over the next three years.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2007/04/16/bibf0416.htm.
