Information for Prospective HIHs

For information on becoming an esMD HIH, review the presentation "Introducing esMD to HIHs" in the 'Downloads' section and also visit the link "How to become an esMD HIH?" in the 'Related Links' section below.

Moratorium

There is currently a moratorium on the onboarding of new HIHs to esMD, while CMS works to optimize the esMD infrastructure.   The task is targeted for completion in April 2013, and HIH onboarding is expected to resume after April 30, 2013.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I obtain CONNECT Software and How much does it cost?

CMS has contracted with QSSI to build the CMS esMD gateway. CMS requires QSSI to use CONNECT software to build the CMS esMD gateway. CONNECT gateway software is open-source (free) and available at www.connectopensource.org.

Are Health Information Handlers (HIHs) required to use CONNECT software?

HIHs are NOT required to use CONNECT software. However, their gateway must be CONNECT-compatible to ensure that it will be able to exchange information with the CMS esMD gateway.

What Version of CONNECT does CMS plan to use?

CMS will use CONNECT version 3.1 in its first release of the CMS esMD gateway.

Does CMS plan to "freeze" the code and utilize CONNECT 3.1 throughout the life of the esMD pilot project? Will CMS update its Gateway every time a new version of CONNECT is released?

CMS plans to update its CONNECT gateway software code each time a new CONNECT feature is released that CMS determines would be beneficial to the esMD program.

Where can I find the esMD Profile?

The esMD Profile is a document that describes how to format medical documentation payloads for submission to the CMS esMD gateway. The esMD Profile is available at www.connectopensource.org/product/connect-nhin-specs.

Where can I find the esMD Implementation Guide?

The esMD Implementation Guide is currently a living development. Please check periodically for the latest version in the downloads section below.