The Message Center with the External Messages tab selected
The Message Center with the External Messages tab selected

About External Messages and Direct Exchange

Use External Messages to securely share patient information with External Providers and other entities. An External Message is similar to an email but it uses a different system called Direct Exchange. To send an External Message the recipient must have a Direct Exchange address.

Patient information is shared in a CCDA file attached to the message, which eases Problem, Medication, and Allergy Reconciliation associated with an Inbound Transfer of Care.