FAQs
What is Sutter Community Connect?
Sutter Community Connect is a comprehensive EHR offering that provides the software tools, systems integration and support a medical practice needs to deliver quality care efficiently, including:
- The EpicCare ambulatory EHR application
- Integrated applications for patient registration, appointment scheduling and billing
- Robust integration with the Sutter Health clinical data repository and EHR system
- Comprehensive solution with lab and radiology interfaces
- Electronic prescription capabilities
Does Sutter Community Connect integrate with data in Sutter Health’s EHR?
Yes, clinical data will be integrated in a single secure database that allows physicians to access and share clinical information across care settings. Sutter Community Connect includes the same Epic software in use by Sutter Health’s medical foundations, but configured specifically for the independent practice setting.
Is Sutter Community Connect a certified-EHR system?
This Complete EHR is 2015 compliant and has been certified by the Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT®), an ONC-ATCB, in accordance with the applicable certification criteria for eligible providers and hospitals adopted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. This certification does not represent an endorsement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or guarantee the receipt of incentive payments.
Will Sutter Health or other physicians have access to independent practice billing and financial data?
No. Your patient and practice information is separate and secure. Information pertaining to your practice, its workflow and billings are owned by your practice and is not accessible by others who use Sutter Community Connect. Furthermore, due to contractual obligations, Sutter Health cannot access this data without consent.
How secure is Sutter Community Connect?
The system is extremely secure from outside threats. Sutter Health's Information Services department is responsible for ensuring data security. Extensive physical safeguards, electronic, and administrative safeguards have been implemented to ensure the data is protected.
Can I use Sutter Community Connect to meet Quality Program requirements?
To achieve requirements for participation in the Quality Payment Programs, physicians and other clinicians will have to adopt a certified EHR and use it not just to document care, but to facilitate improved care. While Epic is a certified EMR, your practice will be responsible for documenting and reporting Quality Program data for participation. Epic has reports to assist you in reporting on the measures.