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Health Information Technology (IT)

From telehealth to imaging interoperability, technology is changing how eye care is delivered. The Academy ensures policies keep pace with ophthalmology's needs.

An ophthalmologist tests a telehealth technology

Health information technology (IT) shapes nearly every aspect of how ophthalmologists deliver and document care — from the imaging devices used to diagnose disease, to the electronic health records used to coordinate it, to the telehealth tools that extend care to patients who cannot easily travel. When IT policies work well, they support better outcomes and more connected care. When they do not, they create new burdens, expose practices to compliance risk, and widen disparities in access. 

The Academy advocates across three interconnected Health IT issue areas. On information blocking, the Academy supports interoperability goals while opposing enforcement mechanisms that unfairly penalize physicians for restrictions beyond their control. On imaging interoperability, the Academy works with federal agencies and standards bodies to advance full adoption of Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) (DICOM) standards across ophthalmic devices. On telemedicine, the Academy fights to protect and expand Medicare telehealth coverage — and to make the flexibilities that have transformed patient access permanent. 

Information Blocking

Federal rules require health IT vendors and physicians to share electronic health information freely — with real consequences for those who don't comply.

Imaging Interoperability

Ophthalmology depends on imaging, but interoperability among ophthalmic imaging devices still has significant room for improvement.

Telemedicine in Ophthalmology

Telemedicine expands access to eye care, but patients and ophthalmologists need fair coverage, payment, and a stable regulatory framework.

Make Telehealth Permanent for Eye Care

Medicare telehealth flexibilities are extended through 2027 — but they are not yet permanent.

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Latest News

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Academy Advocates for Stronger Data Interoperability in Ophthalmology

The Academy urges federal agencies to advance imaging interoperability in ophthalmology, reduce administrative burdens in quality reporting, and expand opportunities for specialists to participate in value-based care.
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CMS Plans Crackdown on Medicare Advantage Upcoding

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced on May 21 plans to expand efforts to audit payments to Medicare Advantage (MA) in the coming months.

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HHS Issues Final Rule to Penalize Information Blocking

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final rule which includes a significant penalty on Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for providers found to knowingly commit information blocking.

Our Advocacy in Action

The Academy has secured key wins for telemedicine access, imaging standards, and AI innovation — protecting ophthalmologists' ability to deliver care with the best available technology.

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