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Interoperability is one of those words that gets thrown around, but it may not be clear what exactly it is. According to the Assistant Secretary of Technology Policy (ASTP), “Interoperability refers to the architecture or standards that make it possible for diverse electronic health record (EHR) systems to work compatibly in a true information network.” The Health Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) defines interoperability as “the ability of different information technology systems and software applications to communicate, exchange data, and use the information that has been exchanged.”

These are both technical definitions of interoperability. Since artificial intelligence is a growing part of our world, we thought we would ask Copilot, “What is interoperability in healthcare?” Here are the results:

·       Refers to the capability of various healthcare information systems to connect, exchange data, and collaborate.

·       Enables seamless exchange and meaningful use of electronic health information across different information technology systems.

·       Allows secure storage and sharing of electronic health data.

·       Improves patient outcomes and quality of care.

·       Enable diverse EHR products to work compatibly in a true information network.

The search also suggested a short video produced by Intely, "What is Healthcare Interoperability?" The bulleted list and short video provide a more basic definition of interoperability and some benefits more understandably.

Interoperability in behavioral health helps break down barriers between different aspects of a person’s care, leading to better patient outcomes and higher-quality care. Interoperability connects systems and providers, ensuring a whole-person approach to care. It also helps patients stay actively involved in their treatment.

One key benefit is improved care coordination. Sharing social drivers of health—non-medical factors that impact well-being—allows providers to address a patient’s needs more effectively. Interoperability also supports trauma-informed care by giving providers access to a patient’s trauma history, so individuals don’t have to repeatedly share difficult experiences unless they choose to. This holistic view helps behavioral health providers offer more personalized and sensitive care.

Interoperability makes workflows more efficient by providing real-time access to information without needing to scan or fax files. This reduces administrative burdens and eliminates delays caused by record requests. Additionally, interoperability supports data analytics, helping providers track intervention effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and inform evidence-based practices.

As you can see, there are many benefits of interoperability. Throughout March, we will provide more information about interoperability options available in Wisconsin, including a webinar discussing Information Blocking and how interoperability can prevent it.