Partnership and Collaboration
Why choose General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) using Oracle Health?
GDIT and Oracle Health as partners were chosen for their strong performance in IT integration and their ability to meet IHS-specific needs, following full and open competition. The IHS evaluated all offers equally as mandated by the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).
How will IHS structure its approach to modernization?
The IHS modernization strategy is structured around a robust governance model that places federal, tribal and urban Indian organization partners at the core to ensure that PATH EHR meets the specific needs of its users. This approach is partner-driven, emphasizing collaboration with health care providers and partners to optimize the functionality and effectiveness of the PATH EHR. The strategy includes continuous feedback loops and adjustments informed by real-world use, ensuring that PATH EHR not only supports but enhances patient care delivery through improved data management and system interoperability.
When will IHS begin its deployment of PATH EHR?
The deployment of PATH EHR is set to begin at the end of 2026, starting with the Lawton Service Unit, which includes Lawton Hospital, Anadarko Indian Health Center, and Carnegie Indian Health Center. This site has been strategically chosen as the pilot location due to its diverse range of clinical environments, allowing us to rigorously test the system’s functionality, usability, and compatibility within a real-world health care setting. The pilot phase is crucial for identifying and addressing any issues, refining the solution, and gathering comprehensive feedback to ensure a smooth and efficient future rollout to other federal, tribal, and urban Indian organization sites, anticipated to start in 2027.
How has the IHS communicated, collaborated with, and received input from the Tribal and Urban Indian community regarding the Health IT Modernization Program?
The IHS regularly communicates with and obtains input from Tribes and urban Indian organizations about the IHS Health Information Technology Modernization Program.
How will federal, tribal, and urban partners inform Health IT Modernization?
The Program will address tribal and urban leaders through Tribal Consultation and Urban Confer to engage and solicit guidance. The IHS will ask tribal and urban leaders to identify technical subject matter experts to participate in focus groups to collaborate and provide input regarding the Program. The Program identified three initial focus groups: 1) interoperability, 2) data management & analytics, and 3) implementation. Additionally, the IHS will form an enterprise governance body to make sure the new system is managed and maintained by the federal, tribal, and urban Indian organization users participating through a robust governance structure.
Who is involved in the governance process?
The governance process for PATH EHR is highly collaborative, involving an array of critical partners to ensure that system configuration meets a broad spectrum of needs. This includes the Executive Steering Committee (ESC), Enterprise Collaboration Group (ECG), specialized focus groups, and the Health IT Modernization Program. Together, these groups encompass federal, tribal, and urban Indian organization representatives who bring diverse perspectives and expertise, guiding the system’s development to ensure it aligns with both federal standards and the unique needs of tribal and urban Indian organization health care environments. This comprehensive structure allows for a use-focused approach that prioritizes functionality and user satisfaction.
What decision-making approach is IHS using?
The IHS is implementing a robust governance model to inform decision making and the IHS is taking advantage of lessons learned from tribal, federal, and industry partners who have engaged in similar efforts.
