What's Happening?
Imprivata, a digital identity company, has launched its Patient Access solution within the Epic Toolbox, a move that integrates the tool as a native feature for hospitals using the Epic Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. This solution employs facial
recognition and high-assurance identity verification standards (IAL2) to allow patients to create MyChart accounts securely from home, eliminating the need for activation codes or phone calls. The primary goal is to match a patient's face with their existing medical record photo, thereby reducing duplicate records, which are a significant cause of denied claims and medical errors. This initiative supports the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 'Kill the Clipboard' initiative, which aims to eliminate repetitive manual forms in healthcare settings.
Why It's Important?
The integration of Imprivata's Patient Access solution into the Epic Toolbox is significant for the healthcare industry as it addresses the growing need for secure and efficient digital access to patient information. By reducing identity uncertainty, the solution enhances patient safety and security, which is crucial in preventing medical errors and reducing healthcare costs associated with misidentification and duplicate records. This development is particularly important as healthcare organizations face increasing pressure to expand digital access and patient engagement without compromising trust or security. The ability to securely verify patient identities remotely can streamline administrative processes, improve patient satisfaction, and potentially lead to better health outcomes.
What's Next?
As Imprivata's Patient Access solution becomes more widely adopted, healthcare organizations may see a reduction in administrative burdens and an improvement in patient engagement. The success of this integration could lead to further advancements in digital identity verification technologies within the healthcare sector. Additionally, other EHR systems may consider similar integrations to enhance their digital offerings. Stakeholders, including healthcare providers and patients, are likely to monitor the impact of this solution on operational efficiency and patient care quality. The ongoing support for the CMS 'Kill the Clipboard' initiative may also drive further innovations aimed at reducing paperwork and improving digital workflows in healthcare settings.
