Health Information Sharing and Options for Vermonters
For Immediate Release
Monday, February 17, 2020
Contact
Nissa L. (Walke) James, Ph.D.
Department of Vermont Health Access
Mobile: (802) 798-2705
Email: nissa.james@vermont.gov
Waterbury, VT— The Vermont Health Information Exchange keeps health records for Vermonters in one secure place so participating providers can view the same information whether they are in Burlington or Bennington. For providers using different electronic medical records systems, the Vermont Health Information Exchange offers a more efficient way to share information than traditional methods like phone or fax. Sharing health information puts providers on the same page and that can mean better care for patients.
On March 1, 2020, Vermonters will no longer need to sign-up to participate and allow their providers to view their record – this will happen automatically. However, Vermonters who do not want their providers to have access to their health records in the Vermont Health Information Exchange can choose not to have their records shared. This is called opting out.
The Vermont Health Information Exchange allows health care providers across the state to securely access essential health information about their patients. “The Department is committed to assuring access to quality health care for Vermonters. This change will contribute greatly to a more robust and usable Health Information Exchange for health care providers when serving their patients,” said Cory Gustafson, Commissioner of the Department of Vermont Health Access. “We want Vermonters to know the benefits and we want them to know they have options on whether to share their information in the Vermont Health Information Exchange,” said Jenney Samuelson, Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Vermont Health Access.
Vermonters have options for sharing information via the Vermont Health Information Exchange that include:
· Participating – no action is necessary.
· Learning more before deciding – more information is available at vthealthinfo.com and by calling the Vermont Health Information Exchange Hotline at 1-888-980-1243. The Health Care Advocate, a resource that is independent of the Health Information Exchange, is also available to answer questions through their helpline at 1-800-917-7787.
· Not participating – Vermonters can opt out of participating by filling out an online form at vthealthinfo.com, downloading a form from the same site to print, fill out, and mail in, or by calling the Vermont Health Information Exchange Hotline at 1-888-980-1243.
The Vermont Health Information Exchange is operated by Vermont Information Technology Leaders (VITL) and supported by the State of Vermont as a service to all Vermonters.
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