HealthPort, which specializes in software for the compliant exchange of protected health information through release of information (ROI) services and audit management technology, has announced its merger with Universata, a release of information company based in Germantown, Maryland.

Officials say the merger is part of HealthPort’s focus on the expansion of its core competency – release of information services – and that it brings together two companies that are now positioned to share their commitment to providing a high-level of compliance, service, technology and a wealth of other resources to the newly consolidated customer base.

[See also: HealthPort bolsters EMR services with ChartOne acquisition.]

As a combined company under the HealthPort name, management will work together to assess the technology and business process advantages of this partnership to provide customers with a valuable release of information platform to assist with improving business fundamentals and enhancing patient satisfaction.

“Through this merger with Universata, we are embarking on yet another opportunity to exceed the needs of our customers and further our technology to an entirely paperless environment for requesting, processing and distributing medical records,” says Mike Labedz, HealthPort's president and CEO.

[See also: 5 ways a PHI breach is like an epidemic.]

"As we continue to advance our mission and footprint in the health information technology industry," he adds, "opportunities like this allow us to establish higher benchmarks for quality service and customer satisfaction, as well as provide a deeper level of focus and attention on compliance, 'best in class' services and renowned technology to hospitals, physician or group practices and clinics across the nation.”