06 Jul Health Data News Roundup: Value-Based Contracting and COVID-19; EHR Adoption and HITECH; and AI for Payers

Welcome to the Health Data Weekly News Roundup from IMAT Solutions. As the power of data continues to grow in the healthcare arena, today’s care organizations need to be on the forefront of all news and trends to help ensure that their data analytics efforts deliver accountable and informed care. Each week, we will provide you with the actionable news you need to meet these goals.

Payers Continue to Expand Value-Based Contracting Despite COVID-19
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) will financially support local independent primary care practices as they transition to value-based care during the coronavirus pandemic, the payer announced.

Tufts Health Plan Expands Substance Abuse Care Coverage
Tufts Health Plan is improving its coverage for substance abuse care for both commercial and government Tufts Health Plan members through a partnership with Recovery Centers of America (RCA).

New Data Shows Heavy EHR Adoption Investment Prior to HITECH Act
A new report is challenging the statistic that only 9 percent of hospitals had completed a basic EHR adoption by 2008, a key figure on which the 2009 HITECH Act hinged.

Anthem Skill Uses AI, Alexa For Medication Adherence, Engagement
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Ohio (Anthem) developed the Anthem Skill to help members pursue medication adherence and better member engagement through Alexa-enabled devices.

Major Health Orgs Create National Patient Identifier Coalition
Six major healthcare organizations have announced a collaboration aiming to enhance a national patient identifier program and boost patient matching by leveraging Congress for legislation and regulations.

Top Chronic Diseases Behind Payer Spending And How to Prevent Them
Chronic diseases are a source of high payer spending, but payers can implement preventive care strategies to lower their expenses and maintain positive patient outcomes.

LANES CA Health Information Exchange Adds PDMP Database
The Los Angeles Network for Enhanced Services (LANES), a nonprofit health information exchange (HIE), announced a connection to a PDMP database, which tracks all controlled substances dispensed to patients across California.