From a business perspective FHIR is an easy sell.
Commercial entities are often not part of the ongoing FHIR conversation, but they most certainly are a big part of its user base — bigger than most of us realize.
“Patient outcomes” aside, how do you sell FHIR?
1. FHIR makes the data conversation easier: “We’re using FHIR.”
It’s an open standard that most healthcare organizations are already working with or familiar with. As a conversation starter, it doesn’t get any better.
2. FHIR is all about Interoperability
Sharing data — especially patient data — is at the heart of FHIR. It’s far from perfect, but it makes it easier for different healthcare organizations to share data and to understand each other’s data.
3. FHIR often ticks the regulatory compliance checkbox
Depending on the country or region you operate in, using FHIR may be a legal requirement. The number of countries where regulations mandate FHIR usage is growing. By choosing FHIR, you’re either complying with these regulations or future proofing your application.
4. FHIR will get your sales and marketing teams on board
There’s nothing like walking into a meeting with a potential customer knowing you can address all or most of their difficult questions. FHIR ticks so many of these boxes.
5. FHIR Implementation Guides make your data model stronger
National Implementation Guides cross organizational boundaries, as do specialized IGs that deal with data security, procedure types, even individual illnesses such as cancer. By building your data model around these guides, your organization benefits from the work and experience of countless others around the world.
6. FHIR is a comfortable entry point to the healthcare domain
It’s far more accessible than HL7 v2, especially to teams without a background in healthcare data. Of course, while getting started may be easier with FHIR, that doesn’t mean delivering polished solutions is any easier.
7. FHIR is inclusive
Your organization can choose to lead the way in shaping the FHIR standard in your area. All you have to do is connect with others and start doing the work. The community is waiting for people and organizations to step up.
Every year “selling FHIR” gets easier.
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