Report on Health Information Sharing and Its Role in Slowing Health Care Cost Growth in Vermont

Introduction

Health care costs in Vermont can escalate rapidly due to routine check-ups or emergency room visits. A significant strategy to control these costs individually and statewide is the seamless sharing of health information among care team members. This report emphasizes the role of health information sharing in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to good health and well-being (SDG 3), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11).

Health Information Sharing in Vermont

Currently, 98.9% of Vermonters share their health data through VITL, an independent nonprofit health data network. VITL provides a centralized platform for doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, care coordinators, and other qualified health care providers to access comprehensive and up-to-date patient records. These records include data from most health care facilities across Vermont, enabling informed, safe, and cost-effective care delivery.

Understanding Health Information Sharing

Health information sharing involves the secure exchange of personal health records, which encompass:

• Medications
• Allergies
• Immunizations
• Test results
• Diagnoses
• Provider notes

While hospitals and providers maintain individual records, VITL integrates these records to provide a holistic view of a patient’s health history, regardless of where care was received within Vermont. This continuity supports SDG 3 by promoting healthy lives and well-being for all ages.

Impact on Health Care Cost Reduction

Health information sharing contributes to cost reduction by enabling providers to:

1. Avoid duplicate laboratory tests and imaging
2. Prevent adverse drug interactions through informed prescribing
3. Reduce unnecessary procedures and administrative workload

For example, emergency room staff can access recent lab work and imaging reports instantly, avoiding redundant testing. This efficiency leads to better patient outcomes and contributes to slowing the growth of health care costs statewide, aligning with SDG 3 and SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure).

Evidence Supporting Health Data Sharing

Research across the United States demonstrates that health data sharing results in:

• Reduced hospital readmissions
• Associated cost savings
• Overall reductions in health care spending

These benefits reduce waste and improve care quality, supporting sustainable health care systems in line with SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production).

Privacy and Security Considerations

VITL prioritizes privacy and security throughout the health data exchange process. Key safeguards include:

• Access limited to authorized providers and staff for approved purposes
• Availability of records to public health professionals for population health management
• Use by care managers and insurance staff to support timely, high-quality, and cost-effective care
• Compliance with strict state and federal privacy laws, including HIPAA
• Continuous monitoring and tracking of data access

These measures ensure the protection of personal health information, supporting SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions).

Conclusion and Recommendations

Affordable health care is essential for sustainable development. While no single solution exists to slow health care cost growth, safe and efficient health data sharing is a critical tool. It supports multiple SDGs by enhancing health outcomes, reducing inequalities, and promoting sustainable health care systems.

Additional Information and Resources

Vermonters can learn more about health information sharing and their rights, including the option to opt out or opt back in, by visiting vitl.net/sharing or calling VITL’s toll-free number at 1-888-980-1243.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article focuses on improving health care delivery and reducing health care costs, directly relating to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • The use of health information technology and data sharing networks like VITL supports innovation in health infrastructure.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The emphasis on privacy, security, and regulated access to health data aligns with building effective, accountable institutions.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3 Targets
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection and access to quality essential health-care services.
   • Target 3.c: Substantially increase health financing and recruitment, development, training and retention of the health workforce.
2. SDG 9 Targets
   • Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries.
3. SDG 16 Targets
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Health Data Sharing Coverage
   • Percentage of population sharing health data through VITL (98.9% of Vermonters), indicating the extent of health information exchange adoption.
2. Health Care Cost Metrics
   • Reduction in duplicate tests, unnecessary procedures, and administrative costs as a measure of cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
   • Reduction in hospital readmissions and overall health care spending, as supported by referenced studies.
3. Privacy and Security Compliance
   • Compliance with HIPAA and state privacy laws, monitored access logs, and authorized use of health data as indicators of data security and governance.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: vtdigger.org