Skilled Nursing Facilities Struggle With Data Exchange: The Need for Improved Interoperability

“Although more and more skilled nursing operators are prioritizing interoperability and crucial data exchange, such as up-to-date health records, there are still plenty of facilities around the United States where this process needs to improve,” shared health-tech experts during a virtual panel discussion titled “Bridging the gap: Tech-powered care transition strategies” on Wednesday.

The panel, part of McKnight’s Long-Term Care News’ Spring Online Expo, highlights the need for tighter government policies and improved technology solutions.

Panelists also noted that skilled nursing facilities face challenges in exchanging data due to receiving patients from various settings with complex medical histories and emphasized the importance of seamless data exchange when older adults move to post-acute care facilities across the country to be closer to family. Efficient health care data flow across networks and geographical locations is crucial for effective care coordination.

Panelist Chris Pugliese, director of product interoperability at ResMed, said there is a lack of focus on technology solutions for interoperability in policy discussions. Pugliese also noted that post-acute care providers do not have clear guidelines or enforcement for using tech solutions and the variety of available tech solutions may not always be applicable or affordable for providers.

A recent survey by webinar sponsor MatrixCare found that 99% of ambulatory and post-acute providers for older adults “…want more effective interoperability solutions.” 

The Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) was established last year as a possible pathway to national interoperability, overseen by the US Department of Health and Human Services. 

“The TEFCA governance…allows the agency to designate qualified health information networks, or QHINs, which can freely exchange healthcare data nationally. Currently, there are seven healthcare systems-designated QHINs,” shared the panel. “Among the provisions in the TEFCA agreement is that the networks must provide a minimum level of documentation, including care summaries, that providers can access.” 

Reference
Dorman, A. Government policies needed for full interoperability in senior care, experts argue. McKnights Senior Living. March 28, 2021. Accessed April 3, 2024. https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/home/technology/government-policies-needed-for-full-interoperability-in-senior-care-experts-argue/