Data Exchange Framework

California’s Data Exchange Framework

The core principle of the Data Exchange Framework (DxF) is that every Californian, no matter where we live, should be able to walk into a doctor’s office, a county social services agency, or an emergency room, and be assured that health and social services providers can access the information they need to deliver safe, effective, whole-person care—while keeping our data private and secure. California’s Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) Data Exchange Framework is a statewide data sharing agreement to connect and expand the secure exchange of health and social services information.

Hospitals, physician organizations and medical groups, skilled nursing facilities, health plans and disability insurers, clinical laboratories, and acute psychiatric hospitals are required to sign the DxF Data Sharing Agreement (DSA) and securely share patient information with patient consent or when otherwise lawful to do so. The DxF also invites and encourages county services, public health, social services, and other health entities to sign onto the DSA.

Data Exchange Framework Data Sharing Agreement

The DSA is a signed agreement and shared commitment between hospitals, physician organizations and medical groups, skilled nursing facilities, health plans and disability insurers, clinical laboratories, acute psychiatric hospitals, and other voluntary signatories to securely and appropriately share information. This ensures that all health and social services providers have quick and easy access to the information needed to safely and effectively treat California’s patients.

To join the Data Exchange Framework, many health entities are required by state law to sign the DxF DSA and follow a common set of terms, conditions, and obligations that promote whole-person care. Entities that sign the DxF DSA are generally required to fully implement the DxF by January 31, 2024, facilitating the secure and appropriate exchange of health and social services information. Some entities, including physician practices with fewer than 25 physicians, acute psychiatric hospitals, and rural general acute care hospitals, will have until January 31, 2026 to fully implement the DxF.

Timeline