Which of the following represents a barrier to interoperating health information systems?

The correct choice illustrates a fundamental challenge faced in achieving interoperability among health information systems: the lack of standardized data formats. Interoperability refers to the ability of different information systems, devices, and applications to communicate effectively with one another. When there is no common standard for data formats, healthcare organizations may use different structures, terminologies, and protocols, making it exceedingly difficult for systems to exchange information accurately and efficiently.

For instance, if one hospital system collects patient data in a format that is not recognized by another system, the data cannot be shared or interpreted correctly. This issue can lead to data silos, where vital health information remains isolated within individual systems rather than being shared across different platforms, ultimately hindering patient care and coordinated treatment efforts.

The other options do not highlight barriers in the same way. An overabundance of health data might complicate analysis but does not inherently impede the ability to share information between systems. Government regulations mandating data sharing would typically promote interoperability rather than hinder it. Finally, universal health record systems are designed specifically to enhance interoperability rather than act as barriers, as they aim to create a cohesive way to manage and share health information across different providers and systems.