Providers everywhere continue to use fax machines, mail, and phone calls to communicate patient health information with their colleagues. These methods are great for non-sensitive information, but have inherent disadvantages and security risks when used in a healthcare setting. Whether it is difficulty reading handwritten or typed notes faxed from another provider or the expense of a courier service, current methods of transmission can be time-consuming, expensive, and inconvenient. In addition, who has not seen sensitive patient information left unattended in a fax machine?
Current methods for health information transmission lack the level of security that is necessary to communicate sensitive health information among providers, patients, and healthcare organizations.
Direct Messaging:
- Replaces less-secure communication methods, such as fax machines and regular mail.
- Encrypts PHI and securely routes it to the intended recipient, eliminating the risk of information being compromised during transmission.
- Assists providers in meeting Stage 1 Meaningful Use (MU) for electronic exchange of information when used to transport content exported from an EHR.
- Encourages efficient exchange of health information that can lead to better care with less redundancy (for example, decreasing the number of duplicate tests and exams) as you routinely share summary of care records with colleagues.
Learn more about RI REC's Direct Adoption Program and register for a free 30-minute webinar.