MyHealthEData initiative could allow patients to control medical records data

CMS recently announced MyHealthEData, an initiative aimed at standardizing medical record data and giving patients the ability to share it with providers.

The MyHealthEData initiative could lead patients to have access to their entire medical record and allow them to access the record from the device of their choice. Allowing patients access to their entire medical record supports patient choice and allows patients to gain a better understanding of their healthcare needs so they can make informed decisions about the care they seek, according to CMS.

On the heels of its announcement about MyHealthEData, CMS announced the launch of Medicare’s Blue Button 2.0, which provides Medicare beneficiaries with secure access to their personal health data in a universal digital format. Medicare’s Blue Button 2.0 allows patients to share information about their treatment, procedures, and medication with new providers. The agency urged other insurers to follow suit and offer patients data in a similar format.

Additionally, CMS intends to overhaul its Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs to refocus the programs on interoperability and to reduce the time and cost required of providers to comply with the programs’ requirements. CMS will continue to collaborate with ONC to improve the clinician experience with their EHRs.