From entering into an agreement with Google Cloud to updating some of its EHR capabilities to become more compatible with Apple, here are 12 of Epic's biggest moves in 2022:
- Epic is introducing a connection hub where developers can indicate that their software is interoperable with the EHR vendor. Launching Jan. 9, the new site will allow vendors connected to Epic to self-report that they have successfully attained data exchange with Epic. Developers can join by submitting their information and filling out an optional questionnaire. Along with the hub, Epic is also introducing a new vendor services platform.
- Epic is updating its EHR capabilities to become more compatible with Apple's Mac operating system. The EHR vendor is working to make Hyperdrive, its specialized browser client, available on Mac computers sometime in 2023.
- Google Cloud and Epic reached an agreement to enable health systems to migrate their EHRs to the cloud. Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health will be the first organization to do so. The agreement between the tech giant and leading EHR vendor will help facilitate the health system's digital transformation, giving them access to analytics and artificial intelligence services that aim to boost patient outcomes.
- Wisconsin Medicine, the philanthropic arm of UW Health and University of Wisconsin's school of medicine and public health, is launching a workforce development initiative led by a "significant donation" from Epic. Madison-based Wisconsin Medicine announced the initiative Oct. 4, noting that Verona, Wis.-based Epic's donation will allow for the creation and expansion of programs "to inspire, train and support the next generation of healthcare workers with a strong focus on impacting historically marginalized communities."
- Epic is working to develop a new software application that aims to help physicians treat patients with rare diseases. Jackie Gerhart, MD, vice president for clinical informatics at Epic, said the software will search databases containing health information from more than 163 million people, allowing physicians to match their current patient with others who may have the same disease to gain insights.
- Epic launched a new life sciences program that aims to speed up clinical trials and therapy development.
- Judy Faulkner, CEO of Epic, said the company is looking to build a nationwide health IT infrastructure to connect the different parts of healthcare.
- Epic partnered with genetic testing and precision medicine company Myriad Genetics to integrate Myriad's line of genetic testing into its EHR system.
- Epic said it plans to join the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement, a new health information exchange network that aims to improve health data interoperability across the U.S.
- Epic announced that it will work with the White House as part of an effort to increase access to COVD-19 treatments.
- Epic launched a customer relationship management system for health systems, "Cheers," and is also developing an app, "Best Care for My Patient," that uses real-world data to help physicians research best care practices for their patients.
- Epic released a new shared environment software service that gives small and independent physician groups access to Epic electronic health records.