Registries seeking to join CMS Repository for public health data must apply by October 31

CMS is currently building a centralized repository to assist eligible providers in meeting the public health reporting measures included in the Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program. The repository will identify public health agencies (PHAs) and clinical data registries (CDRs) that are ready to receive data electronically for 2017 reporting.  

Qualifying entities that wish to join the new repository must complete the CMS input form by October 31, 2016, and email it to EHRInquiries@cms.hhs.gov. Registries that apply must be ready to accept electronic data on or before January 1, 2017, and must identify which of the following public health measures they support:

• Immunization Registry
• Syndromic Surveillance Reporting
• Specialized Registry Reporting
• Electronic Reportable Laboratory Result Reporting
• Public Health Registry Reporting
• Clinical Data Registry Reporting

CMS hopes that the repository will ultimately assist eligible professionals, eligible hospitals and critical access hospitals in meeting the meaningful use requirement to be actively engaged with a PHA or CDR for the submission of electronic public health data.

The repository will be posted on the EHR Incentive Programs website in early 2017.