Health Information Exchange: A Strategy for Improving Access for Rural Veterans in the Maine Flex Rural Veterans Health Access

Authors

Karen B. Pearson MLIS, MA, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
Amanda Burgess MPPM, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
John A. Gale MS, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
Andrew F. Coburn PhD, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
Anush Yousefian Hansen MS, MA, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow

Document Type

Working Paper

Publication Date

5-2016

Keywords

Access/Insurance, Rural, Veterans, Access, HIE, Health Information Technology, access, MRHRC

Abstract

This paper reports on the design and implementation of a first-in-the nation project to expand rural veterans’ access to healthcare by establishing a bi-directional connection between Maine’s statewide health information exchange (HIE) and Veterans Administration facilities and centers. The paper reviews key factors that have contributed to implementation challenges and successes and lessons relevant to efforts to create interoperable health IT systems across multiple, complex organizational settings.

Funding Organization

Federal Office of Rural Health Policy

Grant Number

CA#U1CRH03716

Recommended Citation

Pearson K, Burgess A, Gale J, Coburn A, Hansen A. Health Information Exchange: A Strategy for Improving Access for Rural Veterans in the Maine Flex Rural Veterans Health Access Program. Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research Center; May, 2016.