Nationwide Health Information Network's Free Open-Source Software
Topic: Disability Technology Editorials
Ian C. Langtree - Content Writer/Editor for Disabled World
Published: 2009/07/08 - Updated: 2011/10/08
Contents: Summary - Introduction - Main Item - Related Topics
Synopsis: Nationwide Health Information Network free software for improving information exchange between public and private health information technology systems.
Introduction
The Nationwide Health Information Network (NHIN) has announced that it is giving away free software with the goal of improving information exchange between public and private health information technology systems.Main Item
The free software is called, 'CONNECT,' and is being made available by the Federal Health Architecture, which is an E-Gov initiative being led by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC).
Robert Kolodner, M.D., in relation to CONNECT stated, "This software will strengthen our health systems' ability to share data electronically and provide a wide range of benefits to citizens. Benefits include up-to-date records available at the point of care; enhanced population health screening; and being able to collect case research faster to facilitate disability claims, as demonstrated by transfers of information already underway between the Social Security Administration and MedVirginia, a regional health information organization."
The open-source software revolution is changing the world of information technology through the way people view software. No longer is software something to be perceived as either something that needs to be expensive in order to be worthy, nor is software to be seen as something to be specific to particular corporations or organizations. Companies are finding that shared software that is open-source can be used to share information that produces profits through other means. The benefits to society at large are justifying the release of software technologies that might otherwise have remained hoarded, or sold at costs prohibiting its use among large groups of people.
The ONC facilitated the development of the NHIN, which is tying together health information exchanges, pharmacies, integrated delivery networks, labs, providers, government health facilities, private payers, and additional stakeholders into a larger network. The NHIN is facilitating a mechanism through which systems that had been previously disconnected may begin connecting and sharing information. The NHIN is using interoperability standards that are recognized by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, along with those recognized by both public and private sectors.
CONNECT is built using open-source components, and is being made available under an open-source license. Innovation is being encouraged, and costs are being kept to a minimum. CONNECT will be available to the entire health care industry.
Organizations that have tested CONNECT and demonstrated its abilities include the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration, the Department of Defense, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Indian Health Service, and the National Cancer Institute - all of whom share information among themselves and with private organizations. February of this year found CONNECT being used for the first time in a production environment when the Social Security Administration started receiving patient information from MedVirginia through the NHIN.
Both public and private sector organizations can download CONNECT and use it. Organizations are encouraged to modify and expand CONNECT's capabilities, and share it.
Explore Related Topics
1 - The Black Market for Medical and Health Care Records - The health care world is facing a threat with the prospect of medical records being sold on the black market.
2 - Top Healthcare Technology Issues for 2015 - From Google Glass to 3-D Printing, ECRI Institute spotlights Top healthcare technology issues for 2015.
3 - Social Constructions of Disability: Digital and Internet Technologies - Over the last several decades, the digital revolution has transformed networks services and communications technique for persons with disability.
4 - Digital Inclusion of People with Disabilities - National Council on Disability (NCD) report on digital technologies or processes that have potential to enhance social engagement of people with disabilities.
5 - Best Buy Canada Releases Report on Technology in the Classroom - Best Buy Canada will contribute $300,000 in technology grants to schools in Canada through its Best in Class Fund program in 2009.
Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer
Disabled World is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.
Cite This Page (APA): Langtree, I. C. (2009, July 8 - Last revised: 2011, October 8). Nationwide Health Information Network's Free Open-Source Software. Disabled World. Retrieved October 6, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/editorials/technology/nhin-connect-software.php
Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/editorials/technology/nhin-connect-software.php">Nationwide Health Information Network's Free Open-Source Software</a>: Nationwide Health Information Network free software for improving information exchange between public and private health information technology systems.
Disabled World provides general information only. Materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified medical care. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.