The first of several health care reform bills has been approved by the Iowa Senate. Senate File 404 will enhance the quality, safety and efficiency of healthcare through the use and exchange of electronic health information, including a patient’s medical records, to improve patient-centered healthcare.|The first of several health care reform bills has been approved by the Iowa Senate. Senate File 404 will enhance the quality, safety and efficiency of healthcare through the use and exchange of electronic health information, including a patient’s medical records, to improve patient-centered healthcare.
This legislation will create a statewide Health Information Network, which will connect electronic health records throughout the state, allowing vital patient information to flow between providers. This includes secure provider messages, continuity of care documents, lab results, immunizations and medication history. The bill ensures a patient’s privacy will be completely secure.
An $8,350,000 grant from the federal government is helping to fund this effort, with the remaining costs covered by user fees, state appropriations, grants and participant financing.
The federal government has provided $19 billion in new funding for the adoption and use of health information technology nationwide. With Iowa’s continued leadership in health care reform, our state will be among the first to reap the benefits of electronic health records.
