States can use their existing/planned health information exchange infrastructure to more efficiently comply with the ACA’s data provisions. They may need to modify existing infrastructure or its implementation timeline to capitalize on the possible synergy.

*Milestone details:

*Full name: Develop a plan that aligns the ACA’s data collection and reporting systems with existing statewide HIE infrastructure development timelines.

*Relevance to the ACA:

Much of the HIT and HIE infrastructure that states have already implemented or planned can help states respond to the ACA’s new data collection and reporting expectations. States may consider examining their HIE rollout timelines to ensure that adequate infrastructure will be ready in time to comply with and take full advantage of these provisions. Among other things, this HIE infrastructure can help states:

§1343 – Impose the required risk adjustment charges and distribute corresponding credits to health plans.

§2701 – Voluntarily provide information on health care quality for Medicaid eligible adults using standardized, national measures.

§4302 – Collect required data for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries on race, ethnicity, sex, primary language, and type of disability in order to better under health disparities.

§5102 – Better understand their current health care workforces and plan for future workforce needs through a State Healthcare Workforce Development Grant.