Electronic consent management
Learn about electronic consent management and how this new technology will help clients and providers exchange sensitive information securely.
On this page
ConsentLink launched August 13, 2024
In 2020, the Health Care Authority initiated a project to enhance the sharing of substance use disorder patient information. On August 13 we announced the launch of ConsentLink, a fully compliant 42 C.F.R. Part 2, electronic consent management (ECM) tool. We are thrilled to mark this milestone alongside our partner providers Comprehensive Life Resources, Consistent Care, and Answers Counseling.
About consent management
Current gaps in consent management worsen disparities in access and coordination of care, particularly in times of crisis or urgent need. To address this challenge, the Health Care Authority launched the electronic consent management (ECM) effort. So far, HCA has convened quarterly stakeholder and partner webinars, published a substance use disorder (SUD) data sharing guide, and met with providers to better understand their overall consent needs.
HCA is implementing a cloud-based consent software solution that will manage consents governing the exchange of health and human services-related sensitive data. It will be scalable, secure, and sustainable to meet provider needs. As a component of the Washington State Medicaid Enterprise System (MES), the procured software solution will undergo a comprehensive certification process by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure that it meets stakeholder needs. It will be eligible for enhanced federal funding.
The system will also be required to undergo a rigorous Security Design Review (SDR) by the Washington State Office of Cybersecurity (OCS).
Types of consent
The first type of consent that will be managed in the system are those governing the exchange of SUD services data.
Additional types of consents to be considered in later phases could include those related to:
- Physical and behavioral health
- Tribal services
- Genetic testing
- Advance directives
- Social determinants of health (SDOH)
Future data exchange for client referrals and other follow-up after an encounter with the newly-launched 988 crisis line would also benefit from electronic consent. Learn how the ECM solution works with HCA's other technology initiatives.
Purpose
The aims of the ECM effort are to:
- Reduce provider administrative burden related to consent.
- Reduce the number of incomplete, noncompliant, and redundant consents.
- Break down barriers for providers who provide vital services to Washington’s most vulnerable citizens.
- Assist providers with interpretation and application of relevant statutes.
- Deploy a consent system that will be adaptable and sustainable, yet flexible throughout its lifespan.
HCA thanks the providers and other stakeholders who have given valuable input into the consent initiative thus far. We are committed to further collaboration as this work continues.
Work with us
HCA hosts quarterly webinars to update providers, partners, and stakeholders about the electronic solution deployment, ways to assist the agency, and related activities.
Email the ECM team to schedule a call for more information about this project or to provide feedback.
Webinars
| Dates and times | Webinar materials |
|---|---|
| September 12, 2023 | |
| May 22, 2023 | |
| January 26, 2023 |