Current Enterprise Architecture (EA) models provide little guidance, if any, for implementing interoperability in healthcare organizations. We propose an EA interoperability method that leverages current EA models and business IT. This phased approach was followed during the implementation of an Integrating Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) profile. IHE Profiles provide a common language for purchasers and vendors to discuss the integration needs of healthcare sites and the integration capabilities of healthcare IT products. This profile was reviewed and approved by member organizations of the IHE and is currently being used in trial implementation. Our EA interoperability method refocuses a healthcare organization’s principles and IT to include external entities that current EA models ignore for competitive reasons. Our approach shows the advantage of considering these external relationships between competitors and synergistic third parties. Advantages include increased patient satisfaction, meaningful data exchange and integrated transport solutions that support high-level business processes.

Healthcare Interoperability through Enterprise Architecture