The Division of Health Information Technology Modernization and Operations highlights the importance of partnerships as the foundation of the Health IT Modernization Program. With this foundation, IHS envisions building and operating with our partners, not for them, to improve health care across Indian Country. The following outlines three upcoming opportunities and events for our partners to participate and collaborate.
Statement of Interest
The IHS invites interested tribal and urban Indian organizations that are considering the enterprise Electronic Health Record to complete the non-binding Statement of Interest. The document is utilized to gauge interest in participating in the planning efforts for the multi-tenant EHR solution. Interested partners can email their SOI letters to modernization@ihs.gov.
Focus Groups on Interoperability, Data Analytics, and Health IT Implementation
The IHS extends an invitation for our partners to join in the journey to implement the new enterprise EHR solution using a governance framework that promotes collaboration. To do so, IHS plans to facilitate three initial focus groups – interoperability, data analytics, and health IT implementation. We encourage subject matter experts from IHS, tribal, and urban Indian organizations to engage by participating in one or more of the focus groups. Focus groups are one-time events based on a subject area and are open to all interested participants, not only those who choose to implement the chosen enterprise EHR solution. Interested individuals are encouraged to email modernization@ihs.gov.
Enterprise Collaboration Group
The Enterprise Collaboration Group is an opportunity for technical, clinical, and business subject matter experts from across Indian Country to participate in ECG subgroups. To participate in the ECG, a Statement of Interest form must be completed. These ongoing groups require more time commitment and specific role requirements to attend. The ECG will inform DHITMO and our EHR vendor on key clinical and non-clinical topics. IHS facilities, tribes, and urban Indian organizations who have submitted a Statement of Interest can nominate candidates to participate. Reach out to modernization@ihs.gov for more information.
Upcoming Events
On November 8, 2023, from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. ET, the Health IT Modernization Program will be hosting the November tribal consultation and urban confer via Zoom. The theme for this session is “The Path Forward,” which will dive into the next steps for the EHR solution and provide a welcoming and open space to ask questions. Topics covered will include:
- EHR Overview and the Need for the Solution
- Modernization Timeline
- Statement of Interest
- Acquisitions Approach and Vendor Selection
- Collaboration: Governance and Focus Groups
Additionally, on December 13, 2023, DHITMO will be hosting a Virtual Summit via Zoom from 11:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. ET. The virtual session will open at 10:30 AM ET. This event will provide an update from IHS DHITMO leadership and an opportunity for tribal and urban Indian organization partners to caucus.
