Debating the Proposed CLIA Rule

Physicians who are members of the Indiana Health Information Exchange, for example, can choose how they want their lab results formatted and packaged, he said, making it easier to read, interpret, and deliver the findings to patients in a timely manner.

"I think we absolutely positively have to move toward more electronic connectivity," Emkes said.

But even the efficacy of health information technology is up for debate.

Not all patients whose doctors use electronic health record systems or patient portals have online access, Leiter said. "Patient portals are certainly a great way to deliver lab results and we hope we see more widespread use of them. But right now all patients deserve the ability to see their information in a timely manner."