What is the role of a health information exchange (HIE)?

The role of a health information exchange (HIE) is primarily to facilitate the electronic sharing of health information among various healthcare stakeholders. This electronic platform enables providers, hospitals, laboratories, and other entities to access and share patient information efficiently and securely. The significance of HIE lies in its ability to enhance care coordination, improve patient outcomes, and reduce redundancy in testing and procedures, thereby streamlining healthcare delivery.

By ensuring that health information is readily available when needed, HIEs support timely decision-making, reduce the risk of medical errors, and improve the continuity of care across different healthcare settings. It acts as a critical tool in transforming healthcare into a more integrated system where patient data can flow seamlessly, improving overall efficiency and quality of care.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects that do not align with the primary function of HIEs. Limiting services to reduce costs or regulating pharmaceutical prices pertain to broader health policy and economy rather than the direct sharing of health information. Providing insurance coverage pertains to financial aspects of healthcare rather than the exchange of health data. Thus, the chosen answer accurately reflects the essential purpose of a health information exchange within the healthcare system.