We’re now in Stage 1 of EHR (electronic health records) and its meaningful use. Meaningful use signifying the requirements of software to qualify hospitals and physicians for the HITECH stimulus payments. The earlier these facilities acquire meaningful use EHR’s, the more allocated incentives they receive. Starting in 2011, providers that adopt the “meaningful manner” of EHR systems will be eligible to receive $40,000 – $60,000 paid over five years in the form of increased Medicare and Medicaid premiums. There are several meaningful use objectives in place during Stage 1 that correspond with the essential features of EHR software. Updated definitions of meaningful use will follow in Stage 2 (2013) and Stage 3 (2015) adoption period.
The overall reasoning behind the adaptation to electronic health records is to: improve quality, safety, efficiency, care coordination, engaging patients and their families, ensuring privacy and protection for personal health information. The “meaningful manner” criteria include national electronic objectives so that every physician, practice and hospital will be interoperable in exchange of patient medical information. While there are so many objectives involved; the palpable requirement is Computer Provider Order Entry (CPOE). User must be able to electronically record, store, retrieve and manage at a minimum of the following ordering types: Provider referrals, Laboratory (Radiology/Imaging/Blood tests), Medications, Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, Respiratory therapy, Rehabilitation therapy and Discharge and transfer. Other goals mentioned towards the top of the meaningful use list include: e-prescribing, maintain active allergy list, record demographics, chart in vital signs, smoking status, specific conditions and reminders for patients. For further information and a detailed list of meaningful use measures, visit https://www.cms.gov/EHRIncentivePrograms/35_Meaningful_Use.asp.
While there are several basic requirements of the Stage 1 EHR period, different medical facilities have distinctive needs. Private practices need to pay close attention to the additional features of the software they purchase. Every physician has an individual situation that will influence their need to implement an EHR under meaningful use requirements.
Author: Meredith Crown Smith
