Health Information Exchange (HIE)

Health information exchange (HIE) is a technology that allows digital access and sharing of patient information within a hospital system, a community, or a region. There are three main types of HIE:

  • Directed exchange enables health professionals securely send and receive encrypted documentation, such as lab results and discharge summaries, over the internet.
  • Query-based exchange allows healthcare providers to request patient data from other providers, often used in emergency situations.
  • Consumer-mediated exchange enables patients to manage and transfer their health information online, update personal data, and choose their providers. 
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