(Peoria, IL) — As patients, we are all consumers of healthcare. Many of us have experienced the frustration of not having our complete health record available when and where it is needed. Instead of copying, faxing, or mailing important information for a referral visit, wouldn’t it be nice if different healthcare providers could safely and securely share patient information?

In central Illinois, this idea is becoming a reality. Regional Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) promise to revolutionize healthcare communication and delivery. HIEs are networks of electronic health records, insurance claims, and other sources, such as prescribing information. When providers have easy access to all necessary information about a patient, better care coordination is possible. HIEs can reduce medical errors and duplicate services while helping patients and their families navigate a complex healthcare system.

The Central Illinois Health Information Exchange (CIHIE) and the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria are jointly sponsoring a free conference, “Central Illinois HIE Summit: Patient Care and Connectivity” on Tuesday, October 9 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Bloomington Chateau Hotel and Conference Center.

The conference will address the provider perspective, including:
· How does it work?
· What are the advantages for me?
· How does it enhance care coordination?
· What is the patient perspective?
· Why is it important to our region?

In addition, provider representatives from Decatur, Clinton, and Streator will discuss the impact of health information exchange in their communities.

This conference is open to healthcare professionals, administrators, business and community leaders. There is no cost to attend and space is limited. A continental breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. Registration is required – either online at www.cihie.org or by phone at 309-282-8832.

An HIE functionality demonstration follows the conference at 11:15 a.m