Oracle Health has announced its intention to apply to become a Qualified Health Information Network (QHIN) under the federal government’s health data exchange framework. This framework, known as the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA), utilizes QHINs to facilitate health information sharing among various healthcare entities such as health systems, public health agencies, payers, and health IT vendors.
In order to obtain official designation as a QHIN, organizations must undergo technology and security testing and adhere to data sharing rules before being onboarded. TEFCA went live in December with five QHINs, and two additional organizations have been approved early this year to participate in the exchange.
TEFCA is a significant initiative aimed at promoting healthcare data interoperability by establishing technical requirements and exchange policies for companies to create clinical information sharing networks nationwide. QHINs serve as the backbone of network connectivity, enabling healthcare groups to query and receive data from any other QHIN once officially designated.
Oracle, a member of the CommonWell Health Alliance, is in the process of applying to become a QHIN. As Oracle progresses through the QHIN process, it will continue to participate in the CommonWell exchange. The company’s network is designed to support a wide range of data types, including X-rays and MRIs, which are not typically available in other exchanges. This advancement in health data exchange is crucial for leveraging emerging artificial intelligence capabilities, according to Oracle.
Over two years ago, Oracle expanded its presence in the healthcare industry through the acquisition of electronic health records vendor Cerner for over $28 billion. While the Cerner segment has faced challenges, Oracle executives have expressed confidence in its future growth. The company is also involved in the management of an EHR rollout at the Department of Veterans Affairs, with new deployments of the record currently on hold to improve system reliability and performance.
Despite these challenges, healthcare remains a major focus for Oracle. In April, Chairman and Chief Technology Officer Larry Ellison announced plans to relocate the company’s headquarters to Nashville, Tennessee, to be closer to other healthcare organizations like HCA Healthcare.
In conclusion, Oracle’s application to become a QHIN under TEFCA demonstrates its commitment to advancing health data exchange and leveraging technology to improve patient care and outcomes.
