Why interoperability is cool (again)

The ability to gain access to the data through reusable APIs significantly improves developer productivity, enabling CIOs to achieve more with the same resources. Healthcare data integration was in the news recently with the Office of the National Coordinator highlighting API-led connectivity across Health IT applications as part of its proposed five-year Federal Health IT Strategic Plan.

ONC has been waging a battle with the healthcare and technology sectors to open up data access to patients. While emphasizing greater accessibility of data to patients, ONC chief Don Rucker also noted that the healthcare system’s transformation is “hindered by entrenched interests looking to prohibit access to that information.”

Aside from concerns around data blocking and data access for patients, the ONC’s endorsement of API-led integrations is significant. APIs are the connective tissue that can actually unlock the data and enable access to patients, researchers, and others looking to create engaging digital health experiences.