The Idaho Health Data Exchange will use San Jose-based Axolotl technology to power the state's health information exchange to connect more than 1,500 physicians.

Axolotl's Elsyium Exchange technology will electronically connect 30 hospitals and 10 reference labs across the state, allowing physicians to share clinical information in real-time, said IHDE Board Chairpman Dick Compton, who announced the contract on Thursday.

IDHE will use clinical messaging technology designed to allow secure linking and sharing of patient-centric information without compromising data ownership, location or format.

"This project is a fundamental building block in transforming healthcare in Idaho," said Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter. "Medical professionals across the spectrum will be able to access the information they need to make better, faster diagnoses using technology that protects confidentiality. It's a crucial step forward in improving healthcare for Idahoans."

IDHE, a public benefit corporation that creates a statewide partnership between Idaho healthcare providers, health insurance companies and citizens, was created by the Health Quality Planning Committee in January.

The public-private partnership includes Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke's Hospitals (both in Boise), Kootenai Medical Center (Coeur d'Alene), St. Mary's Hospital and Clinics (Cottonwood), Clearwater Valley Hospital and Clinics (Orofino) and physicians, pharmacists and insurers such as Blue Cross of Idaho and Regence Blue Shield.

"Axolotl's technology will enable us to quickly and cost-effectively implement the exchange, which is designed to improve patient safety and quality of care while helping to contain healthcare costs," noted IHDE Executive Director LaDonna Larson. "Axolotl clearly provided the most value for the dollar. We chose them because they are a clear HIE leader in terms of both technology and experience."