Hi Thomas, Thomas Clark wrote:
/snip/ > It was enacted to keep the payers happy and not the Patients. I've studied both the HIPAA regs and the Preambles and come away with a completely different impression. It's probably OT for the list but I'd be interested in going offline to get your perspective on this. I've included my email address below. /snip/ > BTW: Findlaw is used as a reference, however bad, for the current state > of the interpreted law within the US. I know. That's why I felt compelled to write the editors about the article. > Your response is right on and should illustrate the need for a Uniform > Model Code for ElHRs especially since this scenario will be repeated in > many countries across the globe. > > If the US can have national and international model codes for Commerce > it should have the same for Healthcare and EHRs. In essence the > governments need a guiding light lest they visit another one like HIPAA > on the populace! With respect to the US, I don't disagree about the need for uniform treatment and definitions. HIPAA is, IMO, a good start on that. Not perfect by any means, but at least it raises the debate to the national level. HHS has charged HL7 and HIMSS with taking the next step; identifying those things (functions and data) that are essential vs. desirable components of an EHR system. I think, though, that we should expect these things to evolve over time. The debate has just started. With respect to the international scene, I respectfully disagree about the desirability of a uniform set of rules. The norms and mores of a medical community must be in synch with those of the larger culture within which that community exists. I value diversity as a generator of alternative, competing solutions. Best regards, Bill bill.walton at jstats.com - If you have any questions about using this list, please send a message to d.lloyd at openehr.org
