Relating to the Iowa health information network including functioning as the state-designated health data utility

This bill relates to the Iowa health information network (IHIN) under Code chapter 135D (Iowa health information network) and the functioning of the IHIN as a state-designated health data utility (state-designated HDU). The bill includes definitions used in the bill. The bill requires the designated entity to administer and govern the IHIN and thereby, also operate and govern the state-designated HDU for the state. “Health data utility” is defined under the bill as a locally governed, multifaceted resource that provides services for the interchange of health data within the health care and public health ecosystems for the purpose of advancing health care and improving public health outcomes. A “health data utility” combines, enhances, and exchanges electronic health data across care and service settings for treatment, care coordination, quality improvement, and public and community health purposes, in accordance with applicable state and federal laws protecting patient privacy. The bill provides the principles, purposes, and composition requirements for the state-designated HDU, including that the state-designated HDU include information and data from a health information exchange, a pharmacy information exchange, a payor information exchange, and a community information exchange. The bill requires certain entities to participate with the state-designated HDU by specified dates. The bill provides that the department of health and human services (HHS) may expend funds appropriated to or received by HHS for the purposes of the bill to carry out the requirements of the bill.