The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) has released a Health IT Playbook to help providers use health information technology (IT) efficiently and effectively.
While health IT can improve care delivery and outcomes, it can be a challenge to implement. The playbook is a web-based resource that gives providers comprehensive, easy-to-understand information about the challenges and benefits of applying such technology.
Based on input from the Patient Engagement Playbook released earlier this year, the newly released resource will be updated regularly and includes:
- practical tools;
- success stories;
- learning guides; and
- multimedia.
For example, an electronic health record (EHR) contract guide included in the playbook provides detailed strategies for choosing an EHR vendor, communicating requirements, negotiating contract terms, and managing risks, as well as additional information on the process of transitioning to EHRs.
The release of the playbook coincides with the start of Health IT Week 2016, which runs Sept. 26 to 30. ONC will host a webinar on Sept. 30, from 2–3 pm ET, to demonstrate the new resources.
Contact Director of Policy Erin O’Malley at eomalley@essentialhospitals.org or 202.585.0127 with questions.
