Published January 09, 2008
The University of Wyoming has created a new Web site in response to the
growing need for private and secure electronic transfer of health
information.
The UW Center for Rural Health Research and Education (CRHRE) contracted
the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center (WYSAC) to create the Wyoming
Health Information Resource (WYHIR) at www.wyhir.org.
WYSAC recently administered a needs assessment survey on behalf of CRHRE
to Wyoming health care professionals concerning online exchange of
confidential health data. The information gained from this study was the
catalyst for developing the Web site, says Rex Gantenbein, CRHRE
director in the UW College of Health Sciences.
"WYHIR's main goals are to reduce variations in business practices and
promote widespread adoption of safe, reciprocal e-transfer of health
information in Wyoming," Gantenbein says.
The Web site includes many elements requested by healthcare
professionals to explain procedures in the new field of e-interchange of
health data. Notable features include a section devoted to clear and
concise legal clarification, links to key health information exchange
statutes, and updates regarding new federal and state legislation
protecting electronic information.
WYHIR (pronounced "wire") will also make available consumer reviews,
vendor information, identity theft information, healthcare rights and
ethics, best-practices training, and information on technological
advances and trends in the field.
The Wyoming Health Information Organization (WyHIO) manages the site. For more information,
e-mail Gantenbein at rex@uwyo.edu, or Larry Biggio, WyHIO executive director, at contact@wyhio.org.
