The language in the ONC and CMS rulings that expand the use of unique device identifiers (UDI) in electronic healthcare records (EHRs) is an important step toward a more holistic view of implantable medical devices. These devices play an important role in healthcare delivery, and having a common language to identify them will lead to a better understanding of their role in improving the cost and quality of healthcare. GHX has long been a supporter of data standards in healthcare, whether it is helping manufacturers comply with the UDI rule or enabling providers to incorporate standardized product data in their systems and business processes. The key is speaking a common language, which can reduce many of the functional and technological silos to improve visibility and efficiencies in healthcare. Most importantly, better information as to the real world performance of medical devices - in terms of both quality and cost - will increase the value we can deliver to patients.
About GHX
Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX) drives costs out of healthcare with cloud-based supply chain management technology and services in order to help enable better patient care and savings by maximizing automation, efficiency, and accuracy of business processes. GHX offers healthcare providers and suppliers an open and neutral electronic trading exchange that delivers procurement and accounts payable automation, contract and inventory management, vendor credentialing and management, business intelligence, and other supply chain-related tools and services. For more information, visit www.ghx.comand The Healthcare Hub.