For medical devices, the term “interoperability” refers to the ability of various devices to interact, and for electronic health record systems to talk to each other using a common vocabulary. It is similar to the concept of “plug and play” computer attachments such as a web cam or mouse, which are made to operate with different brands and models of computers.

Although it may seem abstract, successful interoperability among medical devices can improve patient care, reduce errors, and lower costs.

As medical devices become increasingly connected to other medical devices, hospital information systems, and electronic health records, there is a growing expectation that they will be interoperable—and that the data they transmit will be secure.

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