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Michigan IPA joins health information exchange

By Molly Merrill , Associate Editor

Huron Valley Physicians Association, an independent physician association, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is joining My One Health Information Exchange (my1HIE), an HIE formed by physician organizations in Southeast Michigan.

HVPA officials say participation in the HIE will improve the care they offer their patients and reduce healthcare costs.

my1HIE was developed by United Physicians PC, Olympia Medical Services and Continuum Management Services, and uses technology from Detroit-based Covisint.

The HIE allows physicians to share patient information and collaborate on patient care with other physicians and healthcare providers.

"Connectivity between physicians and the ability for them to coordinate the care they provide is a key element of any effort to improve care and reform the whole care process.

The absence of that connectivity and coordination is a primary flaw in the current system," said Paul Harkaway, MD, president of HVPA. "We are excited about the opportunity to work with our colleagues to use the tools my1HIE offers to improve care and reduce healthcare costs by reducing medical errors and duplicate testing."

my1HIE gives members access to a physician Web portal called myWorkspace, which provides multiple clinical applications including electronic prescribing, patient registry tools, e-labs, and HIPAA compliant messaging through a single interface.

"HVPA, as a leading physician organization, recognizes the importance of e-technology to the future of healthcare," said Steven Grant, MD, president and CEO of United Physicians. Grant said he was pleased United Physicians was joining myiHIE to work with others dedicated to improving the coordination of clinical information, enhancing patient care, and reducing the cost of healthcare.

Participation in my1HIE further supports collaboration among several physician organizations currently participating in the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Physician Group Incentive Program and assists those focusing on implementing the elements of Patient-Centered Medical Home in their practices.