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Review the Resources on healthcare policy and regulatory/legislative topics related to health and nursing informatics. Consider the role of the nurse informaticist in relation to a healthcare organization’s compliance with various policies and regulations, such as the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA). Research and select one health or nursing informatics policy (within the past 5 years) or regulation for further study.

In this assignment, you will create a 1-page fact sheet that your healthcare organization could hypothetically use to explain the health or nursing informatics policy/regulation you selected. Your fact sheet should address the following: Briefly and generally explain the policy or regulation you selected. Address the impact of the policy or regulation you selected on system implementation. Address the impact of the policy or regulation you selected on clinical care, patient/provider interactions, and workflow. Highlight organizational policies and procedures that are/will be in place at your healthcare organization to address the policy or regulation you selected. Be specific. Use APA format and include a title page, in-text citations, and a reference page.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Title: Understanding the Impact of the 21st Century Cures Act on Healthcare Informatics

Introduction

The 21st Century Cures Act, enacted in December 2016, is a comprehensive legislative measure aimed at accelerating medical innovation, improving health information technology (HIT), and enhancing data sharing across healthcare systems. This policy emphasizes the importance of interoperability, patient access to health data, and the modernization of health IT infrastructure. As nurse informaticists play a crucial role in implementing and complying with this regulation, understanding its implications is essential for ensuring seamless integration into clinical workflows and promoting enhanced patient care.

Policy Overview

The 21st Century Cures Act mandates certain standards for health information technology to improve interoperability and patient access. It requires healthcare providers, health IT developers, and health plans to ensure that electronic health records (EHRs) are interoperable, allowing data sharing that supports clinical decision-making. Additionally, the law prohibits information blocking practices that inhibit data sharing, thereby fostering transparency and patient engagement (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2021).

Impact on System Implementation

Implementing the provisions of the Cures Act necessitates significant updates to existing EHR systems to meet interoperability standards such as Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR). Healthcare organizations must invest in advanced health IT infrastructure, including secure data exchange platforms. Nurse informaticists are vital in guiding these technical upgrades, ensuring compliance with standards, and training staff on new functionalities.

Impact on Clinical Care, Patient/Provider Interactions, and Workflow

The Cures Act enhances clinical care by facilitating real-time access to comprehensive patient data, which improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment plans. Patients gain easier access to their health information through patient portals, strengthening engagement. For providers, streamlined data sharing reduces redundancy, minimizes errors, and optimizes workflow efficiency. However, adapting workflows to new systems requires thorough training and change management strategies to mitigate resistance and ensure smooth transition.

Organizational Policies and Procedures

Healthcare organizations must develop policies that align with the Cures Act's mandates. This includes establishing protocols for data sharing and breach management, ensuring systems are compliant with FHIR standards, and documenting processes for informed consent regarding data exchange. Regular staff education and audits are necessary to maintain ongoing compliance and address any gaps in practice.

Conclusion

The 21st Century Cures Act significantly influences health informatics policies, underscoring the necessity for robust system infrastructure and effective workflows. Nurse informaticists are central to navigating these changes, ensuring compliance, and promoting patient-centered care through seamless data interoperability.

References

  • U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2021). Summary of the 21st Century Cures Act. https://www.hhs.gov
  • Adler-Milstein, J., Everson, J., & Lee, J. (2015). EHR Adoption and Hospital Performance. Health Affairs, 34(3), 509-517.
  • Blumenthal, D., & Tavenner, M. (2010). The HITECH Act — adapting the health care system to promote innovation. New England Journal of Medicine, 362(24), 2342-2344.
  • Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. (2018). Connecting Health and Care for the Nation: A 10-Year Vision to Achieve an Interoperable Health IT Infrastructure.
  • HealthIT.gov. (2020). What is Interoperability? https://www.healthit.gov
  • Rudin, R. S., Motuapula, M., & Vogt, K. R. (2019). Medical informatics and the legal environment. Journal of Medical Systems, 43, 101.
  • Kruse, C. S., et al. (2016). The impact of electronic health records on patient safety: a systematic review. Journal of Medical Systems, 40, 2.
  • Amatayakul, M. (2016). The Role of Nurse Informaticists in Achieving HIMSS Stage 7. HIMSS Perspective, 19(2), 22-25.
  • Harper, P. (2017). Implementing Health IT Standards: Challenges and Strategies. Journal of Healthcare Management, 62(3), 184-190.
  • McGinnis, J. M., et al. (2016). The Next Generation of Electronic Health Records. NEJM Catalyst, 2(4).

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