Erika G. Martin|Grace M. Begany
Opening government health data to the public: benefits, challenges, and lessons learned from early innovators
University at Albany, State University of New York|University at Albany, State University of New York
government agencies rapidly developing web portals proactively publish open data searchable available nonproprietary formats unlimited use distribution rights dynamic environment aimed understand experiences 2 early leaders open health data us department health human services new york state department healthsemistructured interviews 40 practitioners policymakers elicited value propositions capabilities required successful open data programs strategies improving impact sustainability transcripts analyzed using grounded theory approach identify common perspectives divergent viewpointsrespondents optimistic value open data reporting numerous opportunities advance triple aim lower costs improved health care quality better population health benefits agencies include enhanced data quality efficient operations external benefits include improved health literacy datadriven changes health care delivery consumer engagement community empowerment key challenges resources cultural resistance navigating legal regulatory issues data qualitythe open data movement likely continue success requires sustained leadership resources organizational cultural change promotion data use governance jurisdictions initiating open data programs incorporate lessons early innovatorsthe open data movement bright future unknown longterm impact maintain momentum important directions field include reconsidering legal guidance protecting health data open data era quantifying return investment