How Can Hospitals and Medical Practices Meet the Requirements for “Meaningful Use” of Certified EHR Technology?

Advanced electronic health record (EHR) technology provides secure and accurate storage of patients medical records and health information that helps physicians offer complete medical care to their patients. Because of the added security that this technology offers, Medicare and Medicaid have implemented financial incentive programs for hospitals and medical practices for the meaningful use of EHR. Here are some guidelines for the parameters of meaningful use:

• Meaningful users: EHR incentive regulations state that the only members to have access to the technology are those who will use it for the purpose of patient safety and efficient medical care.
• Exchange of information: EHR technology allows medical offices to transfer information quickly and easily for the benefit of quality healthcare. Electronic information may be exchanged between doctors or used for e-prescriptions to ensure the safe distribution of medications.
• Yearly demonstration of use: Successful demonstration of meaningful use by trained and qualified medical professionals is necessary in the first year of using EHR technology. These uses include prescription transfers, use of medical records in patient care, and accurate implementation of security features.

Meeting technology requirements

EHR technology that satisfies incentive requirements may be brought in through an upgrade to existing systems or installation of new equipment. Staff must be trained to use certified technology for accurate use. There are 3 steps for staging the introduction of EHR technology, the first of which is in progress until 2013. It sets the standard for data entry and sharing. Over the next 5 years, these standards will progress and expand.

If you would like to learn more about the incentive benefits of EHR technology, then contact the consultants at PathMaker Group. We specialize in security and identity management. Get more information about our services online or call (817) 704-3644.