Version 1.0
The concept of the health data utility has generated great interest, discussion, and debate. The Consortium for State and Regional Interoperability (CSRI) believes that each state should have a statewide health data utility as the most effective, cost efficient, and justly governed approach to meeting the comprehensive health data needs in that state. We recognize that the lack of clarity over the definition of an HDU is an obstacle to the nationwide adoption of the health data utility model; however, merely proposing a definition risks over-simplification and tempts unhelpful binary classification.
There is value in providing an aspirational health data utility model for states and health data organizations within the state. There is little or no value in using a definition to judge whether “Organization A” is a health data utility, whereas “Organization B” is not. Therefore, a maturity model is the correct approach to clarify, advance, and apply the health data utility concept because it provides the opportunity for a more robust description of the characteristics and services of a health data utility and the segments of health care and government it serves. Importantly, a maturity model also recognizes that states are starting from different points and with different health data organizations as assets on which to build.
The CSRI Health Data Utility Maturity Model offers a starting point and a path forward for health care, health data, and government leaders to follow in the way that is best for their state and model against which it can measure gaps with its current state.
The purpose of this document is threefold:
- To serve as a means of communicating the health data utility concept to interested parties including existing health data organizations and state governments.
- To serve as a source of strategic guidance to existing health data organizations to inform their planning and strategic decision making.
- To give some standardization to the health data utility concept and begin the process of building on and refining an agreed upon industry maturity model for HDUs.
Note:
This is version 1.0 of the CSRI Health Data Utility Maturity Model. There will be future versions as the model evolves. CSRI welcomes input and fully expects discussion and experience to inform future versions that will make the CSRI HDU maturity model more valuable over time. Send feedback and suggestions to info@thecsri.org.
