Patient Portals

The 21st Century Cures Act Interoperability Final Rule calls for patients to have free, easy access to their own electronic health information (EHI). A patient portal can be an effective tool to support information sharing, patient engagement, and patient safety.  

A well-designed patient portal can provide a secure way for clinicians and patients to communicate and can strengthen the patient-clinician relationship. When implemented effectively, the portal can have a significant impact on a patient’s experience of their health care and empower them to be an active participant in their own care.  

It is important to note that, per the 21st Century Cures Act Interoperability Final Rule, clinicians may not charge patients (or their guardians) for portal access.  

Additional Resources: 

• AAP Policy: Electronic Communication of the Health Record With Pediatric Patients and Their Guardians 
• AAP News (login required): Technology improves pediatric patient engagement, outcomes
• 21st Century Cures Act Interoperability Final Rule
• 21st Century Cures Rule: Patient Access 
• ASTP Patient Engagement Playbook