With the Meaningful Use Stage 2 deadline fast approaching, Merge Healthcare has released iConnect Network, an interoperability service that allows hospitals and imaging centers to share images directly with referrring physicians without having to build costly HL7 interfaces. According to Merge, the system can deliver images securely into electronic health record (EHR) networks and health information exchanges (HIE) without the need for additional infrastructure.

The company beta tested the system with customers, who noted the system’s smooth interface with outside systems. Luis Velasco, chief information officer at Marana Health Center, said, “iConnect Network is a true example of a solution that integrates with our EHR, achieves information exchange and helps our health center be more efficient by automating time-consuming processes. This ultimately enables us to improve treatment times, reimbursements and patient care, as well as meet core regulatory requirements.” 

Merge plans to add additional features to the network down the road, including electronic patient referrals, automated insurance precertification services for imaging providers, and direct patient access to care navigation to schedule and access images. For more information, visit Merge Healthcare