This website is intended to provide consumers and healthcare professionals with relevant information on health information exchange and the adoption of electronic medical records. Both the federal and state governments are working to ensure that the electronic exchange of health information is both secure and private. Michigan has been working with its nine regional health information exchange areas to find safe, secure and confidential ways to exchange patient health information electronically. As the transition from paper to electronic health records moves forward, it’s important for consumers to be aware of how healthcare providers will exchange health information. The overall goal is to provide you with the highest quality and the safest medical care possible.

The Michigan Health Information Network (MiHIN) and the Health Information Technology Commission have endorsed an Informed Opt Out methodology in Michigan to manage how consumers will control their protected health information when it is exchanged electronically. Generally, Informed Opt Out allows patients to choose to not have their protected health information exchanged electronically, but clearly informs consumers of the possible risks associated with making that choice. Resources and additional information regarding the privacy and security of health information can be found on this site. For information on current initiatives throughout Michigan, please click on the Initiatives Tab. We hope this information is useful. We encourage you to ask your health care professionals about their efforts to make your health information available electronically to other health care providers you may see in a safe and secure manner.

This video provides an excellent view into the benefits and potential risks patients should be aware of now that electronic health information exchange is becoming a reality across the state. Experts speak to the sharing of sensitive health information and provide valid reasons to support electronic health records and sharing of health information among the health care professionals that care for you.




This HISPC video was produced by Goodwin-Grayzel Productions, Oregon. Special thanks to Jerilyn Heinold, MPH for making the original video available to Kansas for adaptation by Victoria Wangia, PhD, MS, University of Kansas.

Videos to Help You Consider Privacy & Security Issues Related to Electronic Health Records

These videos were developed under the HISPC Project to better inform health care consumers about the privacy and security aspects of electronic health information exchange and health information technology. One is a full version and the other is condensed. You can access these at www.secure4health.org/consumers.aspx.



FAQs
These are Frequently Asked Questions that you as a consumer may have about Electronic Health Records, health information exchange, and the privacy and security of your patient data.


Glossary
The glossary contains common privacy and security terms related to electronic health information exchange. It is written with the lay person in mind and should help consumers and health care professionals “speak a common language” about electronic health information exchange.


Electronic Health Records: What You Need to Know
Important facts about electronic health records (EHRs) for you to consider.


Benefits and Risks of Health Information Exchange
Health information exchange and health information technology are tools that health care providers and consumers can use to improve health care. As in any other industry, the ability to exchange information electronically comes with benefits and risks. Here are some for you to consider.




You can find more information about the privacy and security aspects of electronic health records and electronic health information exchange at www.Secure4Health.org. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding the privacy of your health information.