Information Blocking

The growth of health care IT has focused more attention on patient access to their health information, and regulatory entities are paying attention, particularly when it comes to "information blocking."

Information blocking happens when designated entities — providers, IT developers, health information networks, or others — intentionally deny or materially discourage appropriate access, exchange, or use of electronic health information. The concept is an important one: The federal government has already implemented regulations around information blocking that include serious penalties.

Your best bet to avoid penalties or other run-ins? Learn as much as you can to identify and address processes that are likely to constitute information blocking. Here are resources that can help you get a complete picture.

APTA Practice Advisory: Information Blocking (Updated July 25, 2024)
On July 25, 2024, APTA reissued a practice advisory for practice owners and organization administrators, staff PTs and PTAs, and health IT developers to understand information blocking and avoid disincentives.

ONC Information Blocking Homepage
Description: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, known as ONC, is the regulatory entity behind the provisions of the Cures Act related to information blocking. This site gives you an overview of the entire rule and allows you to dive deeper into information blocking. Tip: Click on the "Resources" tab at the top of the page for fact sheets, webinars (including an information blocking Q&A), a link to the entire final rule, and more.

HHS Fact Sheet on 2024 Disincentives Final Rule
The final rule advances HHS priorities for deterring information blocking and promoting safer, more coordinated care for all patients through electronic health information sharing.

ONC FAQs on Information Blocking
ONC provides answers to common questions on information blocking.