However, they are currently limited in their ability to share information with each other and achieving full interoperability would require each of them to build and maintain multiple interfaces.

The PA eHealth Partnership Authority is working with health information exchanges (HIEs), integrated delivery network (IDNs) and like entities in the commonwealth to develop a CSS layer to provide interoperability.

The goals are to:

• Build capacity for exchanging health information
• Increase connectivity and the flow of patient information to improve quality and efficiency of care
• Support movement toward nationwide interoperability

The CSS layer will also provide access to services that will be used and paid for by participating entities, allowing them to avoid replicating costs for functionality that all can benefit from. This includes but is not limited to:

• Provider Directory services to locate providers across PA
• Patient Index services to help locate patient consent preferences
• Record Locator Services to locate sources of patient records

Through a combination of federal and state funds, the PA eHealth Partnership Authority is providing grant funding to support the ability of certified entities to connect to the CSS layer, and to develop the requirements of the CSS layer through a participant workgroup and affiliated tiger teams. The workgroup and tiger teams are meeting to develop the needs, policies and sustainability model that will create and maintain the CSS.

Meeting Summaries

CSS Participant Workgroup Meeting Summary - June 28, 2012

CSS Participant Workgroup Meeting Summary - May 31, 2012

CSS Participant Workgroup Meeting Summary - May 15, 2012

CSS Participant Workgroup Meeting Summary - May 1, 2012