If you are wondering what is a health information exchange and what it means for your privacy, this page is for patients first. A health information exchange (HIE) lets the providers involved in your care securely share your medical records electronically — but you have rights over how that happens. AzHeC built its patient-rights process so that the benefits of connected care never come at the expense of your control over your own information.
What is a health information exchange, in plain terms
A health information exchange is a secure, regulated network that lets your doctor, hospital, lab, and pharmacy share your health records so everyone treating you sees an accurate, up-to-date picture. Instead of each office keeping an isolated chart, authorized providers can request your records when they need them for your care. It is not a single giant database open to anyone — it is a permissioned exchange governed by strict privacy law.
Your core rights
- The right to know: you are entitled to a clear explanation of what the exchange is and how your data may be used.
- The right to opt out: Arizona’s model lets you choose not to participate; opting out blocks your records from being shared through the exchange.
- The right to access: you can request a record of who has accessed your information.
- The right to correction: you can ask that inaccurate information be corrected at its source.
How the opt-out process works
Participation in most statewide exchanges is “opt-out” by default — your records are available to your treating providers unless you formally decline. The patient-rights process gives you a straightforward way to submit an opt-out request, confirms when it takes effect, and explains the consequence: providers outside your current office may no longer be able to pull your history through the exchange, which can slow care in an emergency. The choice is yours, and it is reversible.
Who can see your records — and who cannot
Access is limited to authorized participants with a treatment relationship, and every query is logged. The exchange is not available to employers, marketers, or the general public. Sensitive categories of information receive additional protection under state and federal law, and access is auditable so misuse can be detected and addressed.
Why connected records help you
When you understand what a health information exchange is, the trade-off becomes clear. Connected records mean fewer repeated tests, fewer dangerous drug interactions, and faster, safer care when you cannot speak for yourself. Your clinicians increasingly view those records at the bedside on medical-grade tablets, so the right information reaches the right person at the right moment.
FAQ
Is my data sold? No. A health information exchange is for treatment, care coordination, and permitted public-health uses — not commercial sale.
Can I change my mind after opting out? Yes; opt-out decisions can be reversed.
How do I see who accessed my records? You can request an access log through the patient-rights process.
Learn more on our consent models and data privacy & HIPAA pages, and reach us anytime via contact.
This page provides general information about patient rights and is not legal or medical advice.