Question 1

How does IHDE protect patient health information?

Accepted Answer

IHDE employs multiple layers of security including 256-bit AES encryption in transit and at rest, role-based access controls, comprehensive audit logging, and regular third-party penetration testing. All systems are HIPAA and HITECH compliant with SOC 2 Type II certification.

Question 2

Is data stored centrally or distributed?

Accepted Answer

IHDE uses a hybrid model. Core clinical data is indexed centrally for rapid query response, but the source records remain with the originating provider. This means we maintain a master patient index and document locator service, but the full clinical documents are retrieved in real-time from participating organizations.

Question 3

Who can access patient data through IHDE?

Accepted Answer

Only authorized healthcare providers with an active Treatment, Payment, or Operations (TPO) relationship with the patient can access their records. Every access is logged and auditable. Patients can also opt out of the exchange entirely.

Question 4

What EHR systems does IHDE integrate with?

Accepted Answer

IHDE integrates with all major EHR systems including Epic, Cerner (Oracle Health), MEDITECH, athenahealth, Allscripts, eClinicalWorks, and NextGen. We support HL7v2, CDA/CCDA, and FHIR R4 standards for interoperability.

Question 5

What are the minimum technical requirements?

Accepted Answer

For the Clinical Portal, you need a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari), a broadband internet connection, and a workstation meeting standard healthcare IT requirements. For EHR integration, our team will work with your IT department to configure secure connectivity.

Question 6

How long does onboarding take?

Accepted Answer

Clinical Portal access can be provisioned within 2-4 weeks. Full EHR integration typically takes 8-12 weeks depending on your system and workflow requirements. Our implementation team provides dedicated support throughout the process.

Question 7

Can patients opt out of the exchange?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IHDE respects patient autonomy. Any patient can request to opt out by completing an opt-out form. Their data will be excluded from query results. They can also opt back in at any time. Opt-Out and Request-to-Rescind forms are available at idahohde.org/faq.

Question 8

What types of data are available through IHDE?

Accepted Answer

IHDE exchanges ADT (Admission, Discharge, Transfer) notifications, lab results, radiology reports, discharge summaries, medication lists, immunization records, care plans, and clinical notes from participating organizations.

Question 9

Is there a cost to participate?

Accepted Answer

IHDE offers tiered pricing based on organization size and services selected. Contact us for a customized quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

HIPAA & Security

Technical Requirements

Data & Participation

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