In addition to facilitating the transfer of information across healthcare networks throughout the country, the aim behind TEFCA is to create timely and true bi-directional information sharing to address public health threats and epidemics.

The first draft of the proposal released was based on more than 200 public comments regarding various concerns and suggestions, including those of the private sector. ONC officials stress that part of TEFCA’s success relies on collaborations between public and private sector entities.

“ONC updated the TEFCA based on those comments, including the addition of a “push-based” exchange modality, in part, because commenters noted that push transactions play a vital role in supporting public health use cases,” they said. “The two most important things that the private sector can do now are comment on the Trusted Exchange Framework, the Minimum Required Terms and Conditions, and the QHIN Technical Framework; and review and apply to the notice of funding opportunity for the TEFCA Recognized Coordinating Entity Cooperative Agreement.”

The public comment period on the TEF, MRTCs, and QHIN Technical Framework is open until June 17, as is the application period for the Notice of Funding Opportunity — Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement Recognized Coordinating Entity (RCE) Cooperative Agreement.

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