Interoperability and Patient Access
In 2021, a new federal rule made it easier for our members to manage their digital medical records.
The Interoperability and Patient Access rule (CMS-9115-F) focuses on interoperability and patient access, making it easier for members to get their health records when they need it most in a way they can best use it. (For more information about this rule, visit the CMS website https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/interoperability-and-patient-access-fact-sheet.)
The new ruling focuses on providing Medicaid Members, Providers, and Payers with tools to promote easy access to monitoring individual health outcomes. In addition to the current Medicaid portals offered by the Mississippi Division of Medicaid and our Managed Care Partners, the new third- party apps will give even more opportunities for connection and coordination.
The new rule makes it so you can easily find information on:
- • Clinical records,
• Claim determinations (paid and denied), and
• Provider directories for access to and coordination of care
New Options for Members Managing Digital Medical Records
The first step for members to get access is to register for the mobile website app or download the third-party app from the Apple Store or Google Play on a mobile device or computer – just like downloading a game or an app from your favorite store. The third-party app will help connect the member to individual medical history that DOM currently has available.
No member data is shared with the authorized third-party app until the member signs up, completes identity verification, and authorizes the sharing of their personal data.
- Note: At this time, registry cannot be completed by authorized users acting on behalf of a member. More information will be provided on this capability in the future! For additional information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions for Members section of the webpage.
The list of authorized third-party apps currently partnered with the Mississippi Division of Medicaid include the following:
b.Well – Connected Health
- Sign up at icanbewell.com or download the Connected Health App via the Apple or Google Play store.
- For support with log in or access, email at contact@icanbwell.com.
- You can find help with sign up and additional resources on their website.
My Flexpa
- Sign up online at my.flexpa.com. (Currently, this app is only available via web access.)
- For support with log in or access, email My Flexpa at support@flexpa.com.
- You can find help with sign up and additional resources on their website.
Benefits to Accessing Health Information
Here are a few of the benefits that our members can expect:
- Instantly view claims and clinical information.
- See the full picture of your medical history.
- Have better conversations with Providers through access to your entire medical history immediately instead of requesting paper or electronic record transfers which may delay care.
- Choose a provider or specialist more quickly by having an up-to-date provider directory.
- Check whether a claim has been paid, denied, or is still being processed any time of the day or night.
- Ensure your health history can easily come along when changing providers or health plans.
Frequently Asked Questions for Members
Please see below for additional information regarding Interoperability and Patient Access.
How does Interoperability and Patient Access Rule affect me?
Which third-party apps have been approved by DOM?
The apps you use to access this information are authorized by the Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM), but they are not owned by the State of Mississippi. They are independent, third-party apps. You choose the app you want to use and authorize sharing of your information.
Please reference the list of approved third-party apps in the “New Options for Members Managing Digital Medical Records” section of this webpage.
How do I find an approved third-party app?
Choose the app you want and:
1. Download the app. Smartphone apps are available through the Google Play Store (Android) and the App Store (iOS). Web apps are also available for computers.
2. Use the directions provided by the app to create your account and link your medical records.
If you are having problems with downloading the app or creating your account, look for the Help information in the app or support information provided on our website. While DOM may not be able to help you with third-party app specific issues, we are always available to help with privacy concerns or interpreting your health data.
Do third-party apps need to follow Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy rules?
Most third-party apps will not be covered by HIPAA. Most third-party apps will instead fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the protections provided by the FTC Act. The FTC Act, among other things, protects against deceptive acts (for example, if an app shares personal data without permission, despite having a privacy policy that says it will not do so).
To learn more about the DOM’s privacy and security practices, you can find more information at: Privacy and Security – Mississippi Division of Medicaid
You can learn more about the FTC’s mobile app privacy and security for consumers here: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0018-understanding-mobile-apps
If you want to know more about your protections under HIPAA, you can find more information at:
• Patient rights under HIPAA and who must follow HIPAA: https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/guidance-materials-for-consumers/index.html
• HIPAA FAQs for Individuals: https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/faq/index.html
What are my rights when it comes to my data collected in an app?
First, the third-party apps cannot access your information until you grant permission to do so. When signing up for the app, you will first verify your identity and confirm with the website or app that you approve for them to access your data.
Since you control access to your medical records, it is your responsibility to take steps to keep them safe. Treat your medical record information the same way you would treat your banking or other confidential information. Keep these things in mind:
• Keep your login information private and secure.
• Be sure you read and understand the app’s privacy and security policy before allowing the app to access your health data. Each app may have different policies. Some may share your information with other entities, so be sure to check for that in their policies.
• Each app will have its own complaint management process. Look at the help provided by the app for specifics.
What medical records will the app collect?
This may vary based on the app you choose, but typically you may have access to claims, medications, immunizations, diagnoses, procedures, and doctor visits.
You give the app permission to collect your data when you sign up. If you are concerned about privacy, the app’s Notice of Privacy Practices will tell you what is collected.
How many years of medical records will I see?
DOM can provide medical record data dating back to January 1, 2016, in compliance with federal CMS Patient Access requirements. However, the amount of history you can view in a third-party app may vary depending on the app you choose.
Do I have to use an app to get my medical records?
No. You can also contact your provider, DOM, or a previous health plan directly and have them provide copies.
Does the app collect non-health data from my device?
Some apps may collect location or other data; check the app’s privacy policy for what else they may track.
Does sharing my data with this app have an impact on my family members?
No. Currently only members 18 and older will have access to medical history. At this time, authorized representatives do not have access to associated members’ information.
How do I correct mistakes in my medical records?
Contact DOM and they will help you determine the best way to make the correction.
How do I stop sharing my data?
Use the app’s revoke access function or contact customer support for the app.
