Statement from CHIME CEO in Response to Introduction of National Patient Identifier Repeal Act

ANN ARBOR, MI, Sept. 25, 2019 – Below is a statement from College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) President and CEO Russ Branzell in response to the introduction of the National Patient Identifier Repeal Act of 2019 by Sen. Rand Paul.

 

“The patient identification conversation is one about saving lives and unlocking the potential for technology to revolutionize healthcare while cutting costs.

 

Even in the paper era, Congress recognized the criticality of identifying patients with the passage of HIPAA. They acknowledged that maintaining the privacy and security of health data is of the utmost importance, but that the data needs to be portable to aid in the provision of care.

 

Congress continued this commitment through the investment of nearly $40 billion into the adoption and utilization of electronic health records. In the 21st Century Cures Act, the bipartisan expectation for nationwide interoperability was clearly laid out as they recognized the power of data to save lives.

 

Moreover, Congress has approved a healthcare identifier for Medicare beneficiaries that goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

 

Sen. Paul’s arguments are tired and lack a grasp of current reality. They are, to put it mildly, antiquated and from some bygone era. He tried a similar effort during a recent HELP Committee markup, but his ill-fated amendment was met with a resounding defeat by members of even his own party.

 

Our patients deserve better and it is the time to do the right thing. No more excuses.

 

 

The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), chief digital officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With more than 2,900 members in 56 countries and over 150 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME provides a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate; exchange best practices; address professional development needs; and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org.

 

Candace Stuart

Director of Communications and Public Relations, CHIME

734.665.0000