Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you use this system?
Who uses this system?
What is the difference between Web-based and Web-enabled?
How quickly can I be up and running?
What is an ASP?
How do I control my data?
Will the system connect to other systems?
How can I be sure the information is safe?
How will I do my reports?
Can I customize the system?
How are Immunization rules changes updated?
Does the system meet CDC's 12 Key Attributes for Immunization Registries guidelines?
Will this system do billing?
What is the difference between an Operational Data Store and a Data Repository?
Q Where can you use this system?
A You can access the system from anywhere you have a web browser running because our system is totally Web-based.
Q Who uses this system?
A Public and private health personnel such as physicians, nurse practitioners, administrative assistants and school nurses access this system.
Q What is the difference between Web-based and Web-enabled?
A SHS has a truly web-based application which means that it was built from scratch to be deployed on the web. All the workflow processes, business logic, and database links were designed and built to work on the web and be extended as new applications are defined. Web-based applications can easily access legacy data on other platforms. On the other hand Web-enabled systems merely apply a web interface to an existing mainframe or client/server application. Web-enabled applications are subject to prior work flow processes, inability to quickly and efficiently change legacy imbedded business rules, and inability to quickly and seamlessly move from one application to another.
Q How quickly can I be up and running?
A You can start using the registry immediately once your security credentials have been issued because the Immunization Registry is a web-deployed application.
Q What is an ASP?
A ASP stands for
Application
Service
Provider. Simply stated SHS will take all responsibilities for running the Web-base application in its facilities in Louisville, Kentucky. SHS will provide all necessary security, firewalls, database fail over protection, redundant power supply, redundant telecommunications lines, daily data back up and recovery, offsite data storage, disaster recovery plan, network and application help desk support. The ASP model provides an always-available system on a 24X7 basis.
Q How do I control my data?
A Each customer data set is segregated on a separated database instance.
Q Will the system connect to other systems?
A Yes. The database will connect to other disparate systems and exchanges data in an HL7 healthcare industry standard format.
More information about the EPHRS Interface and HL7.
Q How can I be sure the information is safe?
A Security is a core feature of the architecture. Security features such as a firewall, public key encryption, secured sockets, role based security and user authorization are implemented. Biometric scanning and smart card deployment are also available. The system is HIPAA compliant to anticipated rules.
More information about Security.
Q How will I do my reports?
A Numerous pre-defined reports are available to every customer. Additionally, a customer may use a report generator to build ad hoc reports against the database.
Q Can I customize the system?
A Yes. SHS can customize input screens and reports to fit customer requirements. SHS can also design and build additional applications per customer request.
Q How are Immunization rules changes updated?
A The rules for the Immunization Registry are externalized and are easily updated by a group of physicians familiar with the ACIP guidelines. Once the rules are updated and tested to the physician group concurrence and satisfaction, the rules are then instantiated into the database and are assessable to all uses immediately.
Q Does the system meet CDC's 12 Key Attributes for Immunization Registries guidelines?
A Yes. The Immunization Registry was designed and built from a clean sheet of paper with the CDC rules as a guideline. In fact SHS's Immunization Registry exceeds the guidelines in all areas.
More information on the Strategic Immunization Application (SIA).
Q Will this system do billing?
A The systems does have a billing component and can also tie into other Practice Management Systems using HL7 data links.
Q What is the difference between an Operational Data Store and a Data Repository?
A The Operational Data Store collects and stores real time information. The Data Repository is a mirror of the Operational Data Store but is used for client reporting, data analysis, and research. The Operational Data Store contains identifiable patient data whereas the Data Repository contains only high level de-identified patient demographic information. This insures that all HIPAA regulations are fully adhered to.
