Each program has a strict set of criteria that a company must meet before receiving accreditation from the commission. So, who is the Electronic Healthcare Network and why are they important? First, the EHNAC is a non-profit organization comprised of healthcare industry professionals that seeks to standardize the transmission and security of healthcare data. Although, many people may not be familiar with the Electronic Healthcare Network Accreditation Commission it does serve a very important role in the evolution of electronic health care records.

The organization feels that having a set of standards for privacy, security and efficiency of data will give users a greater level of confidence in the electronic records. They feel that this in turn will improve confidence in electronic health records and ultimately spur the adoption of more electronic records. The EHNAC also feels that once electronic healthcare records become the norm it is critical that the flow of data be smooth and that the data is protected. The best way to do this is to have industry wide standards and a testing process to make sure that providers comply with the standards.

A company that chooses to become accredited through the EHNAC must demonstrate that they are operating within current industry standards for privacy and security and that they are adhering to HIPAA regulations. Earlier this year the EHNAC released a program for the certification of Application Service Providers for EHRs and they are testing a program that will certify Health Information Exchanges. While receiving accreditation from the EHNAC is voluntary, several of the larger electronic health networks, payer networks, and prescribing providers have chosen to submit to the rigorous review process.

Companies such as WebMD Siemens/HDX, McKesson, and Medical Claims Processing Solutions have elected to become certified through the EHNAC.