Public Health Information Network (PHIN)

A statement by Public Health Informatics & Technology Program Office

The exchange of information between public health agencies, laboratories, and other health care organizations remains critical to the mission of public health. Through a set of standards-based services, applications and systems, the Public Health Information Network (PHIN) has provided a framework to facilitate various types of information exchange.

The health IT landscape is evolving rapidly, requiring PHIN to adjust accordingly. CDC’s Public Health Informatics Technology and Program Office (PHITPO) is developing a strategic plan for public health information sharing with our state, local, and federal public health partners with the vision of an integrated healthcare and public health system using health-related information effectively to advance population health and well being. One of our primary goals is to harmonize public health information exchange with the Nationwide Health Information Network (www.hhs.gov/healthit/healthnetwork/background), and the nation’s Health Information Technology agenda. Additionally, we plan to engage the Joint Public Health Informatics Task Force (JPHIT) to synchronize our activities with the Consensus Framework, which is a set of coordinated actions with the objective of ensuring that public health agencies are valued partners in improving population health through effective use of health IT and health information exchange.

This evolution will be challenging. Our partners’ input will be critical to help re-shape PHIN and augment Nationwide Health Information Network standards, services, and policies to support public health practice. CDC remains committed to the collaborative development process and will continue to engage stakeholders through our existing communication channels, including the PHIN website (www.cdc.gov/phin), quarterly newsletters, and partner calls. Discussion forums will be used for future dialogue and engagement with CDC’s current and future partners. For further information please contact: phin@cdc.gov.