Healthcare affordability is a major challenge globally, with fragmented data systems and poor interoperability hindering patient affordability support systems. This study investigates how interoperability and data-sharing frameworks can enhance these systems through a mixed-methods approach, including literature review, comparative analysis, stakeholder interviews, and case studies from 45 healthcare institutions (2018–2022).
Findings show that 73% of healthcare organizations face challenges accessing comprehensive patient financial data across care settings. Five key interoperability components are identified: standardized data formats, secure communication protocols, real-time data exchange, integrated analytics, and robust privacy mechanisms. Organizations with strong interoperability frameworks report a 34% improvement in identifying patients eligible for financial assistance and a 28% reduction in administrative costs.
Disparities exist, with large academic medical centers showing more advanced interoperability than community or rural facilities. Policy frameworks support interoperability but lack specific guidance for affordability system integration, causing implementation uncertainties. The study proposes a framework with technical specifications, governance structures, and performance metrics to improve affordability support across diverse healthcare settings.