Interoperability

Interoperability is a characteristic of a product or system, whose interfaces are completely understood, to work with other products or systems, present or future, without any restricted access or implementation. In the context of healthcare, interoperability is the ability of different information technology systems and software applications to communicate, exchange data, and use the information that has been exchanged.

Definition

Interoperability in healthcare is often described as the ability of health information systems to work together within and across organizational boundaries in order to advance the effective delivery of healthcare for individuals and communities. There are three levels of health information technology interoperability: foundational; structural; and semantic.

Levels of Interoperability

Foundational Interoperability

This allows data exchange from one information technology system to be received by another and does not require the ability for the receiving information technology system to interpret the data.

Structural Interoperability

This is an intermediate level that defines the structure or format of data exchange (i.e., the message format standards) where there is uniform movement of healthcare data from one system to another such that the clinical or operational purpose and meaning of the data is preserved and unaltered. Structural interoperability defines the syntax of the data exchange. It ensures that data exchanges between information technology systems can be interpreted at the data field level.

Semantic Interoperability

This provides interoperability at the highest level, which is the ability of two or more systems or elements to exchange information and to use the information that has been exchanged. Semantic interoperability takes advantage of both the structuring of the data exchange and the codification of the data including vocabulary standards. This level of interoperability supports the electronic exchange of patient summary information among caregivers and other authorized parties via potentially disparate electronic health record (EHR) systems and health information technology (HIT) systems while preserving meaning.

Importance in Healthcare

Interoperability is critical in healthcare for ensuring that the right information is available at the right time to the right people for the purpose of providing optimal care. It enables healthcare providers to have access to complete and accurate patient information, thereby improving the quality and safety of care, enhancing health outcomes, and reducing costs.

Challenges

Despite its importance, achieving interoperability in healthcare is a complex challenge due to the diversity of health information systems, the lack of universally accepted standards, and issues related to privacy and security of patient information.

See Also

• Health Information Technology
• Electronic Health Record
• Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society
• Health Level Seven International

Interoperability Resources
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