CMS Pushes for SMART Health Cards, QR-Based Data Sharing in Healthcare

CMS is currently developing the core infrastructure required for this initiative. This includes a national healthcare directory, secure data entry systems, and modernized digital frameworks.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is accelerating plans to allow patients easier access to their medical records via QR codes and SMART Health Cards. 

Amy Gleason, strategic advisor to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS, confirmed the move, which aims to enhance data portability and patient empowerment.

“Imagine scanning a QR code at your doctor's office and instantly sharing your medical history. Imagine having an AI assistant that knows your care plan and helps you confidently manage medications,” Gleason said in a video by HHS.

She noted that the aim is to reduce administrative burdens and allow providers to focus more on clinical care. 

“The technology will put patients at the center of their care, building stronger relationships with providers who can then focus on healing rather than paperwork,” she added.

CMS is currently developing the core infrastructure required for this initiative. This includes a national healthcare directory, secure data entry systems, and modernized digital frameworks.

Gleason emphasized the role of private companies in delivering patient-facing solutions. “The apps, services, and tools that make this data useful in people's lives must come from you, the private sector. We are creating the space for new ideas to rise so better solutions can compete and scale,” she said.

“We are asking real companies to make real commitments to build data sharing networks–to create apps that deliver real health outcomes,” Gleason added.

Earlier this month, CMS also released its proposed calendar year 2025 physician fee schedule, which includes expanded coverage for digital health tools. This includes digital therapeutics and telehealth services, with new provisions for covering digital mental health treatment devices under Medicare when used alongside a behavioral health plan.

In May, CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) sought public input on creating a patient-centered digital health infrastructure. The initiative aims to support seniors in managing chronic conditions and accessing care digitally.

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