What Is Healthcare Data Interoperability And Why Does It Matter For Clinical Research?

Healthcare data interoperability, the seamless and secure sharing of electronic health data across systems, is essential for improving patient outcomes, driving clinical research, and enhancing healthcare efficiencies.

This white paper explores the definition, importance, and challenges of interoperability, emphasizing its role in reducing redundant processes, enabling real-time data sharing, and supporting informed decision-making. It highlights global initiatives such as the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA) in the U.S. and the European Health Data Space (EHDS), which aim to create unified frameworks for data sharing.

The paper also examines benefits for clinical trials, including improved patient recruitment, real-world evidence generation, and reduced site burdens. Despite these advancements, significant barriers remain, such as disparate systems, high costs, and security concerns. By addressing these challenges, healthcare organizations can build a robust foundation for interoperability, enabling innovation, reducing costs, and ultimately improving healthcare delivery and patient care globally.