ONC Recognized Coordinating Entity (RCE)
The Recognized Coordinating Entity (RCE) is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the Common Agreement component of the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA). The Common Agreement is the baseline technical and legal requirements for health information networks to share electronic health information and is part of the 21st Century Cures Act (Cures Act).
In addition they will collaborate with ONC to designate and monitor Qualified Health Information Networks (QHIN), modify and update an accompanying QHIN Technical Framework, engage with stakeholders through virtual public listening sessions, adjudicate noncompliance with the Common Agreement, and propose sustainability strategies to support TEFCA beyond the cooperative agreement’s period of performance.
2022 TEFCA Timeline
Q1 of 2022
- ✅ Publish Common Agreement Version 1
- ✅ Publish QHIN Technical Framework (QTF) – Version 1 and FHIR Roadmap
- ✅ Initiate work to enable FHIR-based exchange
- ✅ Public education and engagement
Q2 of 2022
- ✅ QHINs begin signing Common Agreement and applying for designation
Q3 and Q4 of 2022
- Onboarding of initial QHINs
- Additional QHIN applications processed
- RCE establishes Transitional Council
- RCE begins designating QHINs to share data
- Prepare for TEFCA FHIR exchange pilots
Qualified Health Information Networks (QHIN)
To apply for QHIN Designation, a Health Information Network (HIN) must meet certain prerequisites, including already operating a network that provides the ability to locate and transmit EHI between multiple persons or entities electronically, with existing persons or entities exchanging EHI in a live clinical environment; and providing the RCE with a written plan of how it will achieve all of the requirements of the Common Agreement within a specified time period.
As of October 3, 2022 QHIN Application is open.
QHIN Application, Onboarding, and Designation Phases – The prospective QHIN Application, Onboarding, and Designation process has been divided into a series of five phases. See the phases.
The RCE opens the #QHIN Application! Organizations who have submitted their intent to apply will receive a submission ID to start their application. View the application and what you need to get started here: https://t.co/kvz01qhvKe pic.twitter.com/1sAfAZp8OC
— The Sequoia Project (@sequoiaproject) October 4, 2022
QHIN Contenders
Our TEFCA Playlist
Hear what HIE industry leader say about TEFCA.