Is my EHR compatible?

If you are a provider and use an Electronic Health Records (EHR) system, you may be able to share data with I-CARE using HL7 data exchange. You will need to contact your EHR vendor to determine if your EHR system is HL7-compatible. You also may need to acquire an additional interface for your EHR to send and exchange immunization data.

I-CARE accepts immunization data in HL7 versions 2.3.1 or 2.5.1.

How can I send HL7 immunization data to IDPH?

Illinois Department of Public Health is implementing HL7 data exchange in two phases. The first phase is one-way data transfer of unsolicited vaccine record updates to the statewide registry. This phase is currently implemented in I-CARE for accepting batch immunization data using the Department’s Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) system or the I-CARE application.

The second phase is real-time, bidirectional data exchange of vaccine record updates, queries and responses. Phase two will be completed in late spring 2011. It will allow immunization providers using their EHR system to query I-CARE for a patient (not found in their own EMR system) and ICARE will send the patient immunization information back. It also will allow providers to send updates from their EHR directly to I-CARE for immediate update.

How do I get started?

1. Verify your EHR system is HL7-compatible. Contact your EHR vendor. The document HL7 I-CARE Specifications details the specifications required by I-CARE for sending data in HL7 format. This information can be passed along to your vendor or your technical staff to verify compatibility.
2. Complete the I-CARE User Contract Agreement. It can be faxed to 217-524-0967, ATTN: I-CARE. Questions regarding the contract can be directed to Keith Wood at Keith.Wood@illinois.gov or phone at 217-524-0968.
3. Determine how you will send data to I-CARE. Data can be sent using the Department’s SFTP system or you can become a registered I-CARE user to send data directly in the application. Most providers will choose the first option. The I-CARE HL7 Procedures guide contains instructions on obtaining the SFTP account and other documentation.

If you have general questions regarding HL7 data exchange please contact the I-CARE Project Manager, Robin Holding at Robin.Holding@illinois.gov. For all HL7 technical questions please contact HL7 Development Support, Igor Slobodyanyuk at Igor.Slobodyanyuk@illinois.gov.