What Is Interoperability?
Interoperability is the ability of different information systems to exchange, interpret, and use data cohesively. Achieving true interoperability requires more than technical connectivity; it also requires shared meaning and workflow integration.
Levels of Interoperability
HIMSS defines four levels of interoperability. Foundational interoperability allows data to be exchanged between systems without requiring the receiving system to interpret it. Structural interoperability preserves the format and organization of data during exchange. Semantic interoperability ensures shared meaning through standardized terminologies. Organizational interoperability addresses governance, policy, and social factors that enable data sharing across organizations.
ONC Rules
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) issues rules implementing interoperability requirements under the 21st Century Cures Act, including certification criteria for health IT and standards for application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow patients to access their data.
TEFCA
The Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) establishes a nationwide framework for health information exchange, creating Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs) that agree to a common set of rules for secure data sharing across the country.
Information Blocking
Information blocking rules prohibit healthcare providers, health IT developers, and health information exchanges from engaging in practices that unreasonably interfere with the access, exchange, or use of electronic health information, except under specific defined exceptions.
Certified Health IT
Certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) must meet ONC certification criteria to be eligible for use in federal incentive programs, ensuring baseline interoperability and security capabilities.
Exam Tip
Be able to define and distinguish the four levels of interoperability: foundational, structural, semantic, and organizational.