The Sequoia Project, in its role as the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common AgreementTM (TEFCATM) Recognized Coordinating Entity® (RCE®), today released a draft Qualified Health Information Network® (QHINTM) Technical Framework (QTF) Version 2.1 (QTFv2.1) for public feedback. Feedback will be accepted until July 28 at 11:59pm ET.
The draft QTFv2.1 features changes to accommodate directed queries, which can be used for any Exchange Purpose. Directed queries will be particularly important for Government Benefits Determination, Health Care Operations, and Payment Exchange Purposes. This draft proposal allows directed queries to a specific Participant or Subparticipant to limit extraneous responses. (Today, Participants, via their QHIN, may choose to query one or multiple QHIN(s) at a time but cannot limit their query to specific Participants or Subparticipants within a QHIN.)
The proposed changes to support directed queries only affect QHINs, but the RCE welcomes feedback from anyone interested in TEFCA Exchange. Individual QHINs will still maintain autonomy over how support for directed queries is implemented at the network level. TEFCA Exchange Participants and Subparticipants should speak to their QHIN for more information on how this may or may not impact them when implemented.
Other proposed changes in the draft QTFv2.1 include a new QHIN reporting requirement to break down monthly exchange volumes by Exchange Purpose, which may be reflected in future public reporting by the RCE.
The RCE intends to update other sections of the QTF in the future in collaboration with our Governance Bodies and the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy (ASTP).
The RCE will be holding a special public call at 2pm ET on Monday, July 7 to review the proposed changes in the draft QTF v2.1, answer questions, and receive feedback. You must register for this special call.
The July 15th TEFCA Public Monthly Information Call will also take place.
Read the draft QTFv2.1 and provide feedback now
Change Management Note: The draft released today was prepared by the RCE with input from ASTP and the QHIN Caucus. Following the stakeholder feedback period, the RCE will consolidate and share feedback with the TEFCA Governance Bodies to finalize the amendment in coordination with ASTP.
