by Tom Walsh

A coalition of more than 30 Massachusetts health care organizations, including the MMS, is working behind the scenes to improve the quality of patient care, reduce medical errors, and curb costs. How? By connecting the state's physicians with other providers and all other health care entities in a sophisticated network of electronic medical records (EMRs).

The project, for which Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA) has pledged $50 million to support a pilot implementation, is being watched closely by health care, technology, and government interests around the nation. The coalition was to meet September 28 to formally organize and begin setting up the pilot phase of the program.

If the pilot proves successful, the ultimate objective is to electronically connect the entire Massachusetts health care system -- from hospitals and physician practices to clinics, laboratories, pharmacies, nursing homes, and health plans.

"This project is at the cutting edge and has tremendous potential," said Alan C. Woodward, M.D., MMS president. "I believe physicians will be enthusiastic about this physician-initiated program to enhance communication, quality, and the efficiency of medical care." more