In a centralized model of Health Information Exchange, what is the main characteristic?

In a centralized model of Health Information Exchange (HIE), the main characteristic is that the Health Information Organization (HIO) maintains a central data repository. This means that health data from various sources, such as hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, is aggregated and stored in a single location managed by the HIO. This central repository allows for easier access to patient information and facilitates the sharing of health data across different healthcare entities, improving care coordination and continuity.

With a centralized system, healthcare providers can retrieve comprehensive data quickly, enhancing decision-making and patient outcomes. It also supports continuity of care as providers can access a patient's complete medical history, regardless of where the care was delivered. This model contrasts with other types of HIE setups, such as decentralized models, where data remains on individual servers and is not pooled into one central database.