Epic Nexus Achieves Major Milestone Connecting 625 Hospitals to TEFCA Framework

In December 2023, Epic Nexus, recognized as a Qualified Health Information Network under the TEFCA (Trusted Exchange Framework and the Common Agreement), made headlines by linking 625 hospitals to this vital interoperability framework in just one year. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the secure exchange of medical records across the nation, providing a much-needed boost to patient care and health information accessibility.

The TEFCA was established under the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, aiming to foster universal interoperability in the healthcare sector. David Kaelber, MD, PhD, MPH, Chief Health Informatics Officer at the MetroHealth System, emphasizes the profound impact TEFCA has on improving patient care. "With access to a broader range of patient electronic health information, healthcare providers can develop a more comprehensive understanding of patients, which is crucial for effective treatment. Before TEFCA, approximately 30% of U.S. hospitals faced barriers to exchanging electronic health information. This framework now offers a universal gateway for those institutions, particularly those in rural and underserved regions, to connect and collaborate efficiently."

Epic's commitment to advancing interoperability is rooted in years of effort to ensure that individuals' medical data is accessible whenever it's needed. By creating the first Electronic Health Record-based interoperability network and collaborating with various organizations to establish several nationwide frameworks, including TEFCA and Carequality, the company has solidified its position in the healthcare technology landscape. Currently, every U.S. health system utilizing Epic's solutions is interoperable, leading to improved care coordination and clinical outcomes for countless individuals.

According to Rob Klootwyk, Director of Interoperability at Epic, the implementation process for Epic customers connecting to the TEFCA framework is progressing rapidly. He anticipates that all connections will be completed by the end of 2025.

Founded in 1979 in a small basement with just three part-time employees, Epic has grown into a global healthcare software leader. The company now supports healthcare organizations in 16 countries, with more than 3,700 hospitals choosing Epic's solutions. Over 190 million patients manage their healthcare through Epic's MyChart patient portal, underscoring the company's commitment to not only enhancing individual health management but also promoting broader public health improvements.

As Epic continues its mission, the ongoing expansion of TEFCA connectivity is expected to transform the healthcare landscape by breaking down data silos and enhancing information exchange, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals across the nation. For further information about Epic Nexus and its initiatives, visit Epic's official website.