What is the CURES Act and how does it impact me?

The 21st Century Cures Act signed December 13, 2016, by President Obama, aims to modernize and improve the healthcare industry. One key part of the CURES Act requires healthcare providers to provide their patients with access to their electronic health records (EHRs) in a timely and convenient manner. This means that you have the right to obtain their data from your health care providers as quickly as possible.

Prior to the Cures Act, accessing health records could be a complicated and time-consuming process, consisting of paper-based forms or faxed requests to healthcare providers for access to records. The process could take weeks or even months to complete.

The CURES Act can greatly help you:

• Access your health information, from vaccine records to surgeries, more easily and quickly, allowing you to take a more active role in your healthcare

• View your results as soon as they are available, track your medications, and review your medical history

• Share your health information more easily with other healthcare providers and family members

The work to make this law a reality is still ongoing, and Trove Health is working closely with organizations to make sure we will allow you to access and take control of your data as soon as possible

For more information about additional items in the Cures Act, you can view the National Institutes of Health.