HHS Issues Final Rule on Information Blocking and Reproductive Care Access

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a final rule Dec. 17, that includes a new information blocking (45 CFR Part 171) exception and other updates to protect providers and patients concerned that sharing data about lawfully provided reproductive care services could result in legal action or privacy concerns under certain circumstances. The American College of Radiology® (ACR®) supported finalization of these protections.

The exception was originally a subcomponent of a proposed rule that covered various electronic health record (EHR)/health IT certification criteria and Information Blocking regulatory updates. All other proposals from the rulemaking commented on by ACR — including those related to imaging links in certified EHRs and a new information blocking exception for following patient communication timing preferences — will be handled via a future final rule.

For more information about information blocking rules in general, visit ACR’s related resource page. For questions about digital health policy, contact Michael Peters, ACR Senior Director, Government Affairs.