GRAND RAPIDS — Priority Health has joined Michigan Health Connect, the state’s largest health information exchange.
Priority Health is the first major insurer to join a health information exchange in Michigan. The move comes as the state and nation work to create a secure, seamless system for the transmission of electronic health records to improve patient care and reduce costs.
“Priority Health’s partnership with Michigan Health Connect on behalf of their 600,000-plus members and large network of providers across the state will help ensure that Michigan residents get the best-coordinated care in the country,” said Doug Dietzman, executive director of Michigan Health Connect.
“Collaboration is central to Michigan Health Connect’s mission, and Priority Health’s decision to work with our hospitals, providers and other stakeholders to create an integrated, statewide health information exchange is a great example for other health plans nationwide,” Dietzman said.
Michigan Health Connect is the only health informaion exchange in the state with the ability to deliver hospital admission, discharge and transfer notifications to insurers. The partnership means Priority Health is immediately notified and can start processing claims when members are treated in an emergency room or admitted to a hospital.
“Partnering with Michigan Health Connect means we can further support our providers with the tools and information they need in their local offices to provide the best care for our members,” said Mike Koziara, chief operating officer for Priority Health. “At the same time, we are collaborating to advance the future of health care in Michigan.”
