Health IT advances for the 21st century.

Area of Science:

• Health Policy
• Health Information Technology
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• The US is transitioning to a value-based healthcare system, prioritizing quality outcomes over traditional payment codes.
• The 21st Century Cures Act represents a significant advancement in health information technology, building on prior legislation.
• This policy aims to enhance health data sharing and empower patients with greater control over their medical records.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the policy implications of the 21st Century Cures Act using the Longest model.
• To assess the readiness of advanced practice nurses for value-based care.
• To identify necessary competencies and infrastructure for advanced practice nurses in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Main Methods:

• Policy analysis framework based on the Longest model (formation, implementation, modification).
• Evaluation of the 21st Century Cures Act's progress through its legislative and regulatory phases.
• Assessment of the role and requirements for advanced practice nurses within the new healthcare paradigm.

Main Results:

• The formation phase of the 21st Century Cures Act is complete, with the implementation phase now underway.
• Advanced practice nurses possess inherent strengths in using electronic tools for data sharing.
• Gaps exist in competencies, tools, and infrastructure for advanced practice nurses to fully engage in value-based care.

Conclusions:

• The 21st Century Cures Act provides a foundation for patient-centered care and population health.
• Standardized nursing terminologies and coded concepts are crucial for integrating advanced nursing practice into reimbursement models.
• Successful implementation requires addressing the evolving needs of advanced practice nurses to optimize value-based healthcare delivery.