Last year, CRISP Shared Services (CSS) was selected as one of three Implementation Centers for the CDC’s Public Health Infrastructure Grant program. This program aims to modernize public health data. Dr. Sheena Patel, who leads public health initiatives at CSS, shared insights about their work with public health agencies to improve data sharing and address gaps.
CSS plays a vital role in supporting health information exchange organizations across various states, including Maryland, Virginia, and Connecticut. They help these organizations improve health data utilization, which is essential for effective public health practices.
The CDC’s grant program tasks CSS with offering infrastructure and services to many public health agencies over the next three years.
Dr. Patel’s background includes managing HIE Projects and Provider Relations at CRISP, making her an expert in behavioral health. In her new role, she focuses on public health modernization.
When asked about her role with the Implementation Center, Patel described it as a new and evolving effort. The team is still figuring out the best strategies and tools to support public health agencies effectively. They are in the early stages but are committed to developing a comprehensive approach.
Dr. Patel mentioned that public health agencies face common challenges, especially related to data access and resources. Each state has different limitations in obtaining necessary data. CSS’s project team is prepared to navigate any legal or policy hurdles that might arise.
Resourcing issues are a significant concern for public health agencies; many have numerous priorities but limited staff. CSS aims to help bridge these gaps wherever possible, although the program won’t eliminate all resource challenges.
Reflecting on lessons learned from the pandemic, Patel noted an increased awareness of the importance of health information exchanges (HIEs). Public health officials have recognized the need for timely data for case investigations and reports. However, there still exist challenges in workflows and data availability that need addressing.
Many health systems have expressed frustration about one-sided data flow, where information primarily goes from them to public health agencies. Patel acknowledged this concern and highlighted efforts to create a two-way data sharing process. For example, in Maryland, the Maryland Department of Health provides real-time infectious disease alerts to clinical providers to enhance patient care.
CSS has also helped Maryland become the first state public health agency to implement TEFCA, which enhances data sharing across jurisdictions. This national framework allows states to exchange crucial information about individuals, especially those who are transient or not part of local data exchanges.
Regarding challenges in implementing TEFCA, Patel noted that technical setups were not the main issue. Instead, the focus was on establishing clear policies and procedures regarding what clinical data public health agencies should access.
When discussing the FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standards, Dr. Patel said it won’t solve every problem, but it can improve workflows and data access. CSS is working to adopt FHIR where practical for better efficiency.
CSS is implementing its initiatives in waves, starting with 14 public health agencies focusing on electronic case reporting and immunization. Each project is tailored to meet the specific needs and capabilities of the agency involved.
There’s significant collaboration between CSS and state HIE leaders to ensure alignment and sustainability in public health initiatives. This teamwork is crucial as funding is often temporary, and agencies need to continue their efforts after the grant period ends.
Dr. Patel is eager to move forward with the upcoming welcome webinar, which will set the stage for the initiatives ahead. CSS is dedicated to making strides in public health modernization and enhancing data sharing.