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Jump to All Downloads & LinksKey Takeaways
- While nearly 4,500 health organizations have joined the DxF, the state lacks enforcement mechanisms to ensure meaningful participation and compliance.
- States with successful health data exchange systems — like Michigan, Maryland, and New York — have established strong governance boards with clear statutory authority.
- California needs an independent, multistakeholder governance body with enforcement powers to drive accountability, expand participation, and resolve disputes.
California’s Data Exchange Framework (DxF) has laid the groundwork for connecting health information statewide, but its long-term success requires strong, statutory governance to ensure that all Californians benefit from a truly connected health system.
Improving Care and Cutting Costs Through Connected Health Data
The health care system and people benefit when health information flows securely between providers, patients, and the system. Seamless data exchange connects physical health, behavioral health, and social services information to enable whole-person care that saves lives and reduces costs.
With real-time access to comprehensive patient data, health care providers can:
- Eliminate redundant and costly tests and appointments.
- Avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and readmissions.
- Deliver more effective, coordinated care across settings.
- Improve health outcomes while lowering systemwide costs.
- Protect patient privacy while enhancing care quality.
Why Strong Governance Matters
Despite significant progress, California’s health data exchange faces a critical gap: the absence of a permanent governance structure with real authority.
Currently, the state has no mechanism to:
- Compel participation from reluctant organizations.
- Resolve disputes between participants.
- Approve and implement new data exchange requirements.
- Enforce compliance when organizations fail to meet obligations.
California needs an effective health data exchange governance body built on three essential principles: (1) independent, transparent oversight through a statutory board free from conflicts of interest; (2) multistakeholder participation representing diverse voices across health and human services; and (3) meaningful enforcement authority with tools to ensure compliance, incentivize participation, and require public reporting.
With a permanent governance structure built on these principles, the DxF can fulfill its promise of connecting health information statewide to improve care quality, reduce unnecessary costs, and advance health equity for all Californians.
