In our last post we discussed the trend toward using technology as a means to reduce errors in the medical field. The trend is being embraced in Western Pennsylvania where nine hospital systems are implementing a health information exchange that will enable patients’ medical records to be shared electronically. Projected to cost $4 million and take up to two years to complete, the exchange is called ClinicalConnect. The nine hospitals involved will share the cost.

As we mentioned earlier, one reason the medical field is utilizing electronic medical records is to reduce medical errors. In addition, it seeks to reduce the number of duplicative treatments ordered. Medical errors and duplicate orders for treatment are two factors that can lead to medical malpractice lawsuits. Once the exchange is complete, patient information regarding matters such as drug allergies, prescribed medications and medical history will be just a click away. Jacque Dailey, UPMC vice president of information technology, indicated this type of information will be especially helpful in emergency situations.

In addition to reducing medical errors, the network also seeks to reduce health care spending. The Office of Health Care Reform indicates that if all Pennsylvania hospitals were to share medical records, over the course of five years, health care spending could possibly decrease with the state seeing a savings of $2.8 billion.

The first two hospitals to be tied are Heritage Valley Health System and UPMC. The other hospitals slated to be included in the network are: Excela Health, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Altoona Regional Health System, St. Clair Hospital, The Washington Hospital, Armstrong County Memorial Hospital and Butler Health System. It is expected that ClinicalConnect will eventually be tied with similar exchanges in throughout the state of Pennsylvania.

Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, “Nine hospitals partner to simplify sharing electronic records,” Alex Nixon, Aug. 18, 2011