In HISPC phase 1, many states reported provider misunderstandings of the capabilities and benefits of electronic health information exchange, as well as concerns regarding privacy and security of electronic health record systems. The Provider Education Toolkit Collaborative was formed to create a toolkit for providers to increase their awareness of the privacy and security requirements for and benefits of electronic health information exchange and health information technology (health IT). Through discussions with provider organizations, this collaborative developed a joint public relations campaign. The result was a web-based resource to disseminate consistent, educational information to health care providers about the benefits of electronic health records and electronic health information exchange with a focus on privacy and security to help encourage their adoption.
The educational toolkit and website were developed to address frequently asked questions from health care providers about privacy and security and to teach them why health IT and electronic health information exchange are important tools for improving patient care.