CMS: Providers may Now Text Patient Info, Orders to Care Teams

CMS recently announced that providers in hospitals and critical access hospitals can now text patient information and orders to care teams, provided they use a secure texting platform compliant with HIPAA. While CMS prefers orders to be entered via computerized provider order entry (CPOE) or handwritten, it acknowledges improvements in encryption and application interface capabilities of texting platforms. Effective immediately, the policy change aims to enhance workflows and EHR integration. CMS expects providers to adhere to HIPAA Security Rule and HITECH Act Amendment 2021 requirements and the Conditions of Participation. Routine assessment of secure texting platforms is recommended to uphold patient care standards.