HTI-1 and the Future of Healthcare

As new technologies emerge, staying compliant with the latest regulations while advancing patient care presents a serious challenge for healthcare providers.

Right now, HTI-1 is the biggest regulatory update on the horizon. In this new rule, the ONC shared its vision to release certification program update requirements on a more frequent and cyclic basis. HTI-1 challenges vendors and users to utilize the latest certified EHR software, as defined by the rule, no later than June of 2025.

Meanwhile the ONC is already busy finishing its draft for HTI-2 for immediate release. On March 12th the ONC posted a blog that discussed HTI-2 main deliverables, which include advancing interoperability, as defined by the Public Health Service Act, through updated standards; public health IT certification; expanded uses of certified application programming interfaces (APIs), such as for electronic prior authorization, patient engagement, care management, and care coordination; and information sharing under the information blocking regulations.

It is important for vendors and providers to position themselves in a way that will allow successful implementation of new standards and functionality as they are released by the ONC on a cyclic basis. To get deeper insights into this process, I sat down with James Bisanz, a key figure behind MEDHOST Project Elevate, to discuss its objectives, challenges, and the profound impact these advancements are going to have on rural and community providers.

MEDHOST (M): James, could you start by introducing Project Elevate and its objectives?

James Bisanz (JB): Absolutely. Project Elevate is our initiative to support our customers as they adopt services and solutions that modernize the MEDHOST experience and ensure their compliance with HTI-1 regulations.

M: What makes compliance with HTI-1 so crucial for our partner hospitals?

JB: Compliance with HTI-1 is not just a regulatory hurdle; it's an opportunity to leverage technology for better patient care. That being said, participation in CMS’s Promoting Interoperability Program will require that facilities to ensure certain requirements are being met, so there are financial considerations as well.

M: It sounds comprehensive. What challenges do hospitals face on this journey, and how does Project Elevate help?

JB: The key challenge is staying ahead of regulatory requirements while managing the transition to new technologies. We encourage early adoption of our software releases, offering the latest in compliance and care innovations. The sooner our customers, and hospitals in general, make the necessary updates, the easier the transition will be.

But whoever your EHR vendor is, it’s important to talk with them as soon as possible, if haven’t already.

M: What sets Project Elevate apart in the crowded field of healthcare IT?

JB: Project Elevate is a partnership where we guide our customers through the complexities of compliance and technological advancement. It's our commitment to their success, ensuring they have the support and technology to meet tomorrow's healthcare challenges. I think we’re offering a level of engagement you’re not going to see elsewhere—and, not to mention, we have 40 years of regulatory experience behind us.

M: Can you elaborate on the benefits beyond compliance?

JB: Beyond compliance, our customers gain access to cutting-edge technologies that streamline workflows, enhance patient care, and prepare them for the future. These include our Clinician Experience and Pharmacy Experience systems that we’re really excited about.

M: Lastly, how should hospitals looking to get ahead of compliance and technology trends engage with MEDHOST and Project Elevate?

JB: Hospitals interested in taking the next step should reach out through their designated Customer Success Executive ). We're here to guide them through every stage of the process, from initial consultation to full implementation and beyond.

M: James, thank you for sharing these insights. It’s clear Project Elevate is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare IT compliance and patient care.

JB: It’s my pleasure, Luke. We’re excited about the possibilities and committed to supporting our customers for the future.