HIMSS Responds to Proposed Legislation
The Health and Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) sent a letter to Congress (pdf) in response to the recent Health-e Information Technology Act, proposed by Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA).
One of the concerns cited with the legislation is the suggestion that the federal government oversee efforts for an open source health information technology system. HIMSS particularly suggests that guiding development of such will limit the work of private agencies. The letter further notes concerns about the dismissal of “AHIC 2.0″.
HIMSS does support the proposal that EHRs system be based on an open source model. It is suggested that an open source system is the ideal means to promote use of information technology across the healthcare sector.
In addition, the organization supports the utilization of federal monies in the form of loans or grant to further develop systems.
September 30, 2008 Related topics: Legal & legislative