The Benefit to Patients from Information Sharing Through GaHIN

In today’s digital age, most doctors and hospitals are converting their patients’ paper charts and radiology images into electronic versions—and they’re sharing this vital information with other authorized healthcare providers on an “as needed” basis through  secure health information exchanges (HIEs).

The Georgia Health Information Exchange (GaHIN ) provides a “network of networks” that connects the regional HIEs across Georgia and the U.S. Your medical records are available instantly to authorized doctors so they can provide you and your family with the best treatment possible.  This is especially critical in emergency situations where having access to your complete medical history is essential for the physician for diagnosis and treatment. 

At GaHIN, we are dedicated to giving you and your family the security, privacy and quality healthcare you deserve. 

Why Connect?

GaHIN’s “network of networks” connects healthcare providers which supports sharing of patients’ medical data with each other, either through their electronic health records system, or using a highly secure national direct messaging system. Rather than relying on faxes or couriers, your medical records are readily available to trusted healthcare professionals in the network.

There’s a very real benefit to you when healthcare providers share information, including:

  • Better care coordination throughout all members of your care community
  • Improved safety by reducing medication and medical errors
  • Improved patient satisfaction by eliminating duplicate forms and information requests
  • Clinical decision support tools for more effective care and treatment
  • Elimination of redundant or unnecessary testing
  • Improved healthcare quality and outcomes
  • Reduced health-related costs

Can Patients Join GaHIN?

Only authorized care providers can join GaHIN – which helps to protect your information and that of other patients. There currently is no patient access. 

However, you can opt out if you do not want your records shared across the GaHIN network by contacting your physician. However, it means that you will be responsible for transferring information between your care providers, and should an emergency occur, they will not have access to your records.