MU2 and Direct Messaging, Part 2.

Last day, we looked at the clear inclusion of Direct Messaging as a Stage 2 MU requirement that helps you meet the objective for transitions of care. While SMTP is the primary standard being used by the HIEs, we believe that Direct Messaging will be the preferred communications option for independent healthcare providers, including ECPs. 

In the Stage 2 Final Rule we also read that Direct Messaging will be central to Care Coordination and Patient Communications. Again, I am quoting from Dr. John Halamka's bog post, August 23, 2012:

Care Coordination data must be receivable using the Direct protocol and incorporated in structured form.
"(B) Data incorporation. Electronically incorporate the following data expressed according to the specified standard(s): (1) Medications. At a minimum, the version of the standard specified in § 170.207(d)(2); (2) Problems. At a minimum, the version of the standard specified in § 170.207(a)(3); (3) Medication allergies. At a minimum, the version of the standard specified in § 170.207(d)(2)."

Our recent posts on the Comprehensive Primary Care Initiative are all about coordinated care. It is through care coordination that communications rubber meets reform road. As PCPs establish care teams, participating physicians (ECPs) must be able to exchange patient health information. Above we see specified meds, allergies and problems. But there's much more that can also be conveyed through Direct Messaging, and it's this "much more" that stands to set you apart as the ECP of choice for the care teams in which you wish to participate. 

Health Information Exchange with Patients is required using the Direct protocol. EHR technology must provide patients (and their authorized representatives) with an online means to view, download, and transmit to a 3rd party the data specified below. 

If you've been following our blog, you'll have seen us reference Microsoft HealthVault. Your patients (and you personally) can register for a free HealthVault account and a free Direct address. Your CEHRT software needs to allow you to send your patients their Summary of Care Record using Direct. And while this is a requirement for MU Stage 2, it is available from leading EHR vendors today.

Alistair Jackson, M.Ed.