Interoperability and HIE Series: New Jersey Innovation Institute

In this episode, we delve into the advancements in interoperability and Health Information Exchange (HIE). Learn how innovative initiatives are seamlessly connecting healthcare systems to address critical issues like the opioid crisis. Discover strategies for adopting EHR technology and the role of the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) in streamlining data sharing. The discussion covers overcoming challenges in EHR integration, promoting patient-centered data access, and supporting public health initiatives through real-time data. Gain insights into future trends and technological innovations poised to transform healthcare interoperability and enhance patient care.

What You'll Learn:

• How seamless data sharing between healthcare providers is achieved
• Challenges and solutions in EHR interoperability
• Support for public health through real-time data tracking
• Impact of patient-centered data access on treatment and engagement
• Emerging technologies in healthcare data interoperability

MODERATOR: Bill Cioffi

Client Partnership Executive, Nordic Healthcare

Bio: Bill Cioffi is a seasoned healthcare IT executive and the Client Partnership Executive at Nordic Healthcare, where he focuses on strengthening client relationships, expanding portfolios, and driving strategic growth. With over 15 years of experience in healthcare IT leadership and 25+ years in IT infrastructure and operations, he has a proven track record of leading digital transformation initiatives. Previously, Bill served as Chief Information Officer at CenCal Health, overseeing IT strategy for Medi-Cal services to over 250,000 members in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. He led the organization’s first 3-Year IT Strategic Plan, restructured the Enterprise Project Management Office, implemented an ITSM Service Desk model, and established a Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan. Before CenCal Health, Bill was CIO at North Sonoma County Healthcare District, where he successfully implemented their EHR system, optimized revenue cycle operations, and developed the district's first IT Strategic Plan. His leadership was instrumental in maintaining operational continuity during the 2017 Santa Rosa Tubbs fires. Bill is the Co-Chair of the CHIME Opioid Task Force Technology and Interoperability Sub-Committee and has been involved in the task force since its inception in 2018. He is also a dedicated community volunteer with Food Share. An active speaker and writer in the health IT industry, Bill regularly shares insights through publications and industry events. He holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) from California Lutheran University

GUEST: Jennifer D’Angelo

Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President of Healthcare, New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII)

Bio: Jennifer D’Angelo is a seasoned leader in healthcare technology and management with over 20 years of experience. As the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Healthcare at the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII), she plays a crucial role in driving the organization's mission through innovative and data-driven strategies. Jennifer oversees divisions focused on AI/ML, Defense, Entrepreneurship, Healthcare, and Learning & Development, which accelerate technology, foster innovation, and drive workforce development. Her leadership leverages the vast resources of an R-1 university and builds industry-centric ecosystems to positively impact New Jersey's economy. As the EVP of the Healthcare division, Jennifer oversees federal and state grant-funded programs and manages the New Jersey Health Information Network (NJHIN), facilitating statewide patient data exchange to reduce healthcare costs and improve population health.

GUEST: Dustin Hufford

Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Cooper University Health Care

Bio: Mr. Hufford previously served as the Vice President of Cooper Applications. His health career spans 15 years serving in a number of leadership roles. Prior to joining Cooper, Mr. Hufford served as chief information officer at Memorial Health Care System, a community hospital in North Western Ohio. After Memorial Health Care was acquired by Promedica Health system, he served as Assistant Vice President of Revenue Cycle and Business Systems where he oversaw the implementation of Promedica Health’s electronic health records system. He has experience leading large teams within several areas of IT including clinical, revenue cycle, business systems, and technology. In addition to his experience working with health care providers, he has a background in consulting work where he executed IT strategic planning engagements, merger and acquisition evaluations and post-merger integrations. Since 2015, Mr. Hufford has led IT through several large scale implementations including telemedicine, revenue cycle and clinical optimizations, and the migration to cloud-based services. He is now leading a digital transformation initiative with the goal of providing excellent digital experiences for employees, providers, and patients. Mr. Hufford also leads the Cooper Innovation Center which aims to commercialize intellectual property. Mr. Hufford obtained his undergraduate degree in information sciences from Drexel University and is currently pursuing an Executive Master of Business Administration degree from Drexel.