ROCHESTER, NY – More than 100,000 people in and around Rochester, N.Y., have allowed their doctors to view health information electronically through the Rochester RHIO.

The regional health information organization launched a pilot  in 2007 with 26 doctors and five practices. According to Rochester RHIO executives, since the community-wide launch in March 2008, the RHIO has grown to serve more than 1,700 authorized healthcare providers, including 500 physicians.

Providers can access essential patient information – including lab reports, test results, medication history, radiology images and reports and hospital discharge summaries – on any computer through a secure Internet log-in. Emergency medical services data and information on health and human services provided to the senior community will be added to the exchange by January 2010.

Patients must sign a consent form to allow their doctors to view health information. According to RHIO officials, more than 97 percent of patients have signed the form. In the coming months, patients will also be able to give their consent online.

Stephanie Siegrist, MD, said the Rochester RHIO has helped increase efficiency in her practice.

"The RHIO is a giant step forward in getting doctors the accurate, timely information they need to care for their patients," she said.

According to officials, the RHIO has logged:

• About 1,500,000 added clinical results each month;
• 10,000 virtual health record (VHR) queries/requests for patient information in October; and
• 4,000 e-prescriptions sent by physicians in October.

Rochester RHIO Executive Director Ted Kremer said the organization will expand in 2010.

"The rapid adoption reflects the value that physicians and other providers are receiving," he said. "Statistics allow us to track usage, but our ultimate goal is simply to help physicians work more efficiently and improve patient care."