EHR Association updates Code of Conduct

The EHR Association has released Version 2 of the EHR Developer Code of Conduct after unanimous approval by the association’s member companies earlier this month. The code is a transparent set of industry principles that reflect a commitment to safe healthcare delivery, continued innovation and high integrity, and was developed by the association and first introduced in June 2013. Major changes in Version 2 of the Code include a new section on usability that reflects the critical importance of this topic, elaborates on the role of user-centered design (UCD) and usability best practices, and provides examples of how adopters of the code might involve their clients in those activities. The section on interoperability and data sharing also was updated to add greater clarity on provisions regarding transparency to companies’ clients on pricing models, including components related to achieving interoperability. The association also reiterated its commitment to standards-based, cost efficient information exchange and noted its opposition to data blocking. Leigh Burchell, Association chair and vice president for health policy and government affairs at Allscripts, said, “We are very encouraged that the code has gained wide recognition among EHR developers, as well as the broader industry, including provider organizations and policymakers. Their feedback was important as we looked at how the health IT industry has evolved since the Code was released in 2013 and what changes should be considered.” The EHR Association consulted with several stakeholder groups to update the code, one of which was the American College of Physicians. The organization said it appreciated that the EHR Association came to it for feedback on the new version of the EHR Developer Code of Conduct. "The changes that have been made in Version 2 reflect the ongoing evolution of health IT, and offer improved transparency for physicians and other clinicians whouse health IT in clinical settings," said Shari M. Erickson, MPH, ACP's vice president of governmental affairs and medical practice. CHIME also supports the new version of the code. “CHIME applauds the EHR Association for updating its EHR Developer Code of Conduct," said the group's president and CEO, Russell P. Branzell, CHCIO, LCHIME. "The revisions reflect the rapid changes we are seeing across the industry since the code was first released in 2013. The amended code reflects the growing demand for increased transparency, security and usability of health IT systems. We are also encouraged that the revisions recognize the urgent need to adopt standards and achieve true interoperability. We must work collaboratively across the industry to realize the potential for health information technology to transform healthcare.” The Code of Conduct also covers general business practices, patient safety, and clinical and billing documentation.