Serving as a universal technical and legal baseline for information exchange and interoperability across health information networks (HINs) nationwide, the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) has officially launched.

Launched by the ONC, in conjunction with its recognized coordinating entity, The Sequoia Project, TEFCA will allow entities to apply to be designated as Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs). QHINs will connect to one another and enable their participants to engage in health information exchange across the country.

“Operationalizing TEFCA within the Biden Administration’s first year was a top priority for ONC and is critical to realizing the 21st Century Cures Act’s goal of a secure, nationwide health information exchange infrastructure,” said Micky Tripathi, Ph.D., national coordinator for health information technology at ONC, in this press release. “Simplified nationwide connectivity for providers, health plans, individuals, and public health is finally within reach. We are excited to help the industry reap the benefits of TEFCA as soon as they are able.”

According to Mariann Yeager, CEO of The Sequoia Project CEO, QHIN applications will be open in around 90 days. In the meantime, both The Sequoia Project and the ONC will be working with prospective organizations to prepare them for the application process. It is anticipated the initial QHINs will onboard to the network-of-networks to begin sharing data with one another this year.

Both organizations will be hosting a wide-range of public advisory forums for community and stakeholder input as the TEFCA is developed and implemented. Click here to sign up for these events.

RosettaHealth can assist with any health information challenges you might have, book a free consultation with one of our interoperability experts.