What does "interoperability" mean in health information technology?

Interoperability in health information technology refers to the capacity of various information systems and software applications to communicate, exchange, and utilize data in an effective manner. This means that different healthcare organizations, a variety of software applications, and systems can share information seamlessly, allowing for better coordination of care, improved patient outcomes, and enhanced efficiency within the healthcare system.

This concept is essential because it enables diverse systems—such as electronic health records (EHRs), lab systems, and billing applications—to work together, creating a cohesive flow of information. When interoperability is achieved, healthcare providers can access and share patient data more easily across different platforms and institutions, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s health history and needs.

Other choices do not capture the comprehensive nature of interoperability. For instance, the ability of healthcare providers to deliver care without technology does not relate to data exchange or communication between systems. The ability of patients to access their health records relates more to patient engagement and rights rather than the technical ability of systems to communicate. Finally, storing data securely in a single system does not address the broader need for different systems to communicate with one another, which is foundational to interoperability.