Important Updates Coming to MiHIN's Common Key Service
We're excited to share upcoming improvements to our Common Key Service data exchange solution that will streamline operations over the coming months.
What is the Common Key Service?
The Common Key Service is MiHIN's enterprise master patient index (eMPI) – a tool configured to resolve patient identities associated with data exchanged across our network, ensuring accurate patient matching.
What's Changing?
Based on our enhanced understanding of the HIE landscape and recognition of significant patient matching improvements across the network, we've identified opportunities to increase efficiencies around common key assignment and internal patient matching processes. These insights have enabled us to simplify and optimize how the Common Key Service operates.
How Does This Impact You?
For Data Senders:
No more common keys in outbound messages – Common keys will no longer need to be included in messages sent to MiHIN
Reduced maintenance burden – Ongoing maintenance of common keys in your local systems will no longer be required
Simplified workflows – Delete notifications will no longer be required
For Data Receivers:
No more common keys in ACRS files – Common keys will no longer need to be included in inbound ACRS files
Reduced maintenance burden – Ongoing maintenance of common keys in your local systems will no longer be required
Important Note: MiHIN will continue to make the common key available for organizations currently using it for internal identity resolution purposes.
As previously announced, MCIR is undergoing a modernization effort which represents a significant step forward in improving how immunization data is managed, accessed, and utilized across the state. The new system is designed to enhance user experience, streamline workflows, and support more efficient and accurate data entry and reporting and will officially launch on June 15th.
MiHIN will re-engage organizations whose onboarding was paused, as well as those that expressed interest during the freeze, based on the original order of engagement. Outreach will occur in phases, with preparation efforts beginning in the coming weeks.
At the start of the month, we recognized National Public Health Week and the vital work happening every day to protect and improve the health of our communities.
Across Michigan, healthcare organizations are navigating increasing demands: improving patient outcomes, meeting reporting requirements, and responding to emerging public health needs. MiHIN sits at the center of this ecosystem, uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between clinical care and public health.
By enabling standardized, secure, and scalable data sharing, health information exchange can:
Reduce administrative burden for providers and health systems
Streamline public health reporting and surveillance
Deliver timely, actionable insights to support decision-making
Strengthen care coordination across communities
The result? A more connected healthcare landscape that not only supports providers but also drives better population health outcomes for all Michiganders.
To learn more about MiHIN's data exchange solutions that support public health, visit our website.
How MiHIN's Tobacco Free Data Exchange Solution supports Commission on Cancer Standard 5.9
Effective January 1, 2026, all CoC-accredited cancer programs must comply with Standard 5.9, which requires:
Screening 90%+ of newly diagnosed cancer patients for tobacco use at their first encounter
Referring or providing access to evidence-based smoking cessation treatment for 80%+ of current smokers within 30 days
Conducting annual audits—or implementing documented action plans if thresholds aren’t met
Failure to meet these requirements puts CoC accreditation at risk.
That’s where MiHIN’s Tobacco Free Data Exchange Solution comes in.
Tobacco Free establishes a bidirectional, electronic referral connection to the State of Michigan’s tobacco cessation program, directly supporting the referral and treatment access requirements of Standard 5.9.
Health Information Professionals Week - April 20-24
Earlier this month, we took time to celebrate Health Information Professionals Week and recognize the people who keep healthcare data moving with purpose and precision.
While the week has passed, the impact of this work continues every day. We’re proud to celebrate the professionals behind the data who help make healthcare in Michigan more connected, informed, and human.
To our team: thank you for the care you bring to every connection, every record, and every solution. Your work turns information into insight and helps ensure it reaches the right place at the right time.
To our partners across the MiHIN network: we’re grateful to be part of a community that shares a commitment to accuracy, trust, and better outcomes. Together, you help make it possible for information to follow the patient and support care where it matters most.
Michigan Health Information Network Shared Services, 120 N. Washington Sq., Suite 316, Lansing, MI 48933, United States, 844-454-2443
