SGMC Health is among the first group of health systems participating in the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing health information exchange on a national scale.
TEFCA, developed by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, is a standardized framework designed to facilitate secure and interoperable exchange of electronic health information across the healthcare ecosystem.
Chief Information Officer Chuck Marshburn shared that SGMC Health is dedicated to staying at the forefront of healthcare innovation and interoperability. “This initiative enhances care coordination, improves patient outcomes, and contributes to the overall efficiency of the healthcare delivery system, therefore aligning with our ongoing commitment to improve the lives of all we serve,” he said.
Key components include streamlining the sharing of critical patient information while maintaining the highest standards of security and privacy. The ability to access and share patient information in a standardized and secure manner allows healthcare providers to make more informed decisions, ultimately benefiting patients by reducing redundancies and improving the overall quality of care.
SGMC Health recognizes the importance of empowering patients with greater control over their health information. Patients have access to Epic’s MyChart electronic health record system which enables them to access their health information securely and conveniently via an online portal or mobile app.
SGMC Health is a comprehensive regional health care system comprised of four hospital campuses in Lowndes, Berrien, and Lanier counties. Its network of services across counties in South Georgia include a designated level three trauma center, primary stroke center, advanced women’s and infants, heart, vascular, cancer, and surgical centers and programs alongside 40 plus specialty care centers and clinics.
For more information, visit sgmc.org.