21st Century Cures Act Resources

Information Blocking refers to a section of the 21^st Century Cures Act that became law in December 2016. It applies to the access, exchange, and use of electronic health information (EHI) no matter what technology is used, and is not not something healthcare providers can opt out of or ignore like Meaningful Use, QPP, or MIPS. Information blocking is not associated with Medicare claims reimbursements. Likewise, the requirements against Information Blocking carry penalties of up to $1 million per violation. These requirements apply to certified software produced by EHR vendors (like STI Computer Services, Inc.) but also how doctors work with patient data. The specific requirements against Information Blocking, outlined in the 21^st Century Cures Act, will become effective on April 5, 2021.

For further information about what Information Blocking is, and how to begin complying with new requirements, see the following resources:

• AMA: What is Information Blocking Part 1 (PDF) (January 2021)
• AMA: How do I comply with info blocking and where do I start? (Part 2)
• STI: ChartMaker® Medical Suite Information Blocking Enhancement (May Notification)
• STI: Information Blocking 03-25-2021 Notification
• STI: Information Blocking 101
• STI: Information Blocking FAQs
• STI: Using Note Sections & Checklist Tagging for 21st Century Cures Act and Information Blocking Requirements (PDF)
• STI: Template Editing – Tagging a Checklist (Video)