iHealthBeat: Federal Stimulus Funding

Wichita Takes Back Seat to Kansas Health Data Exchange Project

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Last month, Kansas formed a group to develop a statewide health data exchange system using federal stimulus funding. As a result, the Wichita Health Information Exchange will put its plans on hold and intends, instead, to participate in the statewide effort. Wichita Business Journal, Wichita Eagle.

Survey: Many Medical Groups Falling Short of Data Security Standards

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

A new survey conducted by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society finds that many health care organizations have not implemented sufficient protections to secure patients' medical data. The security systems firm Symantec sponsored the survey. Healthcare IT News, HIMSS release.

California's Selection of Health Data Exchange Group Imminent

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

The California eHealth Collaborative and the California Regional Health Information Organization both are vying to serve as the state-designated entity charged with using federal stimulus funding to create a statewide health information exchange in California. Healthcare IT News.

Texas Firm Throws Hat Into Ring To Certify EHRs Under Stimulus

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

The Drummond Group plans to jump into competition with the Certification Commission for Health IT to certify electronic health record systems under provisions of the federal stimulus law. The law provides billions of dollars in Medicare and Medicaid incentives for health care providers that demonstrate "meaningful use" of certified EHRs. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

ONC Launches Blog To Solicit Public Feedback on Policy, Standards

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

The new blog is designed to allow the public to offer feedback on the work being done by the Health IT Standards and Policy committees. Last month, U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra said such a blog would allow the administration to solicit feedback from a wider audience. Government Health IT.

Group Urges Standards Panel To Keep Focus on Prior Recommendations

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

The HIMSS EHR Association recently submitted written testimony urging the Health IT Standards Committee to focus on its current recommendations on data standards. The group also called for the committee to collaborate with related organizations. Health Data Management.

Blumenthal Stresses Importance of Health IT Extension Centers

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said the health IT extension centers called for under the federal stimulus package will help health care providers become "meaningful users" of health IT and qualify for federal health IT incentive payments. San Bernardino County Sun.

Work Group Gathers Input on Health Data Exchange Standards

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Health IT Standards Committee's implementation work group heard from health care industry leaders about the challenges of establishing common standards for health data exchange. Some participants called for the federal government to create a standard communication interface for the exchange of clinical data. Federal Computer Week, Health Data Management.

HHS Inspector General Details Audit Plans for Health IT Efforts

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

HHS' Office of the Inspector General said it plans to audit CMS' management of the federal economic stimulus package's incentive payment program, which will provide about $30 billion for hospitals and doctors through 2016. HHS' OIG also called for CMS to upgrade its IT systems in order to comply with the forthcoming 'meaningful use' rules. Federal Computer Week.

Policy Panel Listens to Concerns About 'Meaningful Use' Criteria

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Health IT Policy Committee heard from health care providers and specialists who expressed concern about the forthcoming requirements for "meaningful use" of health IT. National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said the committee next will tackle a health IT framework and address privacy and security issues. Healthcare IT News et al.

Study Finds Digital Divide in EHR Adoption Among Hospitals

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that hospitals that serve a larger proportion of low-income patients tend to have lower levels of electronic health record adoption. Researchers expressed concern that without federal intervention, the health IT gap between safety-net facilities and other hospitals could continue to widen. Healthcare IT News, Health Affairs release.

Critics Urge Lawmakers To Tread Carefully With Health IT Proposals

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Some stakeholders claim that health IT systems can cause medication errors, miscalculations, misdiagnoses and other problems. Health care providers currently are not required to submit reports about adverse events caused by computers and software systems. Washington Post.

Standards Committee Hears From Providers on Patient Access to EHRs

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Last week, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Kaiser Permanente, Geisinger Health System and other health care providers told the Health IT Standards Committee how they provide patients with electronic access to their health information. Government Health IT.

Health Care Providers, Industry Preparing for Surge in Health IT Jobs

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

At a recent symposium, an expert panel discussed how the health IT industry is gearing up for significant growth in the health IT work force. Panel members said the government, health care facilities and vendors are likely to contribute to training programs. Healthcare IT News.

Stimulus Package's Investment in Health IT To Drive Changes

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Joseph DeLuca of IT Optimizers, Robert Pearl of the Permanente Medical Group and Jane Sarasohn-Kahn of THINK-Health discussed the federal stimulus package's allocation of $19 billion to help health care providers adopt electronic health records. KQED's "Forum."

How Will Stimulus Recommendations for CPOE Usage Affect Health Care Providers' Adoption?

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Sixty-one percent of health IT professionals surveyed said a Health IT Policy Committee work group's recommendation to include computerized provider order entry as a "meaningful use" metric would accelerate CPOE adoption. Five percent of survey respondents said such a requirement would slow down CPOE adoption.

Work Group Sees Challenges in Electronic Exchange of Lab Data

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Health IT Policy Committee's information exchange work group said sharing laboratory data will pose challenges for many health care providers seeking to demonstrate "meaningful use" of electronic health records. Work group members said the federal government should adopt national standards to support lab data exchange. Healthcare IT News et al.

Indiana Seeks Federal Stimulus Funding for Health IT Efforts

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Five health information exchanges in Indiana and four state agencies have teamed up to apply for federal stimulus funding for statewide health IT initiatives. The groups expect to receive about $8 million to $10 million in federal stimulus funding. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

SureScripts Adopts New E-Prescribing Standard for 'Meaningful Use'

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

SureScripts has adopted NCPDP SCRIPT 10.6 to help physicians access prescription data from health plans and pharmacies nationwide. The electronic prescribing network said the standard corresponds to the "meaningful use" requirements of the stimulus package. Healthcare IT News.

Some Analysts Question Obama Administration's Math on Health IT Funds

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Although the Obama administration has stated that the federal economic stimulus package allocates about $19.5 billion in incentive payments for electronic health record adoption, some analysts say that federal health IT spending could be significantly higher. Huffington Post.

Experts Foresee Continued Growth in Demand for Health IT Professionals, Training Programs

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Harris Miller of the Career College Association, Carla Smith of HIMSS and Peter Yellowlees of the University of California-Davis spoke with iHealthBeat about the growing demand for health IT professionals.

The Meaning of Meaningful: Worrisome Trends on Road Already Traveled

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

If there wasn't the potential for $19 billion in incentive payments, would we really care as much about what "meaningful use" means? Will tying payments to meaningful use actually result in higher quality and more cost-effective health care?

Quality Reporting Central to ONC's 'Meaningful Use' Vision

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

At a National Quality Forum-sponsored conference yesterday, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said that reporting quality measures will be key to the "meaningful use" of electronic health records. He said the goal is to convert existing quality measures into standard metrics that can be incorporated into EHRs and compared across practices and areas. Government Health IT.

Standards Panel Looks to Different Industries for Data Sharing Tips

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra told the Health IT Standards Committee that it could learn from other industries that have implemented data sharing standards. Chopra said he plans to solicit feedback on data sharing through an online forum. Government Health IT.

UCF Takes Steps To Set Up Health IT Extension Center in Central Florida

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

HHS has granted preliminary approval to the University of Central Florida's plan to establish a regional health IT extension center. The federal stimulus package calls for extension centers to provide technical assistance to physicians seeking to adopt health IT systems. Orlando Sentinel.

Health Care Industry Faces Health IT Work Force Shortage

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The federal government's investment in health IT could exacerbate the country's health IT work force shortage, according to experts. Some hospitals are looking to IT workers from other industries to fill the void, while other hospitals are training their clinicians in IT. HealthLeaders Magazine.

Blumenthal: Health IT Standards Fundamental to Health Reform

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Today, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal told Health IT Standards Committee members that their efforts to develop uniform health IT specifications will be key to national health care reform. Blumenthal also said the federal government aims to promote the Nationwide Health Information Network as a public resource for all health IT stakeholders. Healthcare IT News.

Lawmakers Take Issue With Harm Threshold for Breach Notification

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

In a recent letter to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, six members of the House of Representatives wrote that they are "deeply concerned" about the harm threshold provision included in HHS' interim final rule on personal health data breach notification. HealthLeaders Media.

MGMA: Many Physician Groups Not Yet Ready To Invest in EHRs

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Many medical practices are postponing electronic health record adoption because of financial concerns and uncertainty over federal Medicare payments, officials said at the Medical Group Management Association's annual meeting. MGMA also recently released an analysis of the data transaction provisions included in health care reform bills. Healthcare IT News, Health Data Management.

Federal CTO: Health 2.0 'Key Pillar' of Health Care Innovation

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

After last week's keynote speech at the Health 2.0 Conference in San Francisco, Aneesh Chopra, the country's chief technology officer, sat down with iHealthBeat to discuss health 2.0, the federal stimulus package, health care reform and shareable intellectual property.

Kaiser Receives $54M in NIH Grants for EHR Data Mining, Other Research

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Kaiser Permanente will use a nearly $25 million NIH grant for a project designed to link electronic health record data with genetic information. Kaiser will use the remaining grants for other research projects that leverage health IT tools. San Francisco Business Times et al.

Report: Hospitals Must Close IT Gaps To Meet 'Meaningful Use'

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A new report from HIMSS Analytics finds that many health care providers will face difficulty implementing health IT systems that fully comply with the "meaningful use" requirements of the federal economic stimulus package. The report maps the expected 2011, 2013 and 2015 meaningful use criteria with HIMSS' seven-stage Electronic Medical Records Adoption Model. Government Health IT.

CCHIT Says Vendors Can Start Applying for New Modular Certification

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Certification Commission for Health IT started accepting applications for a new program to certify modular electronic health record tools. CCHIT also opened its comprehensive EHR certification program to new applicants. Government Health IT, Healthcare IT News.

Blumenthal: Health IT Growth Could Create 50,000 New Jobs

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Speaking during the American Health Information Management Association's annual conference, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said he expects about 50,000 new positions to open in the health IT industry. Blumenthal also said he expects to soon announce a work force training program designed to boost the ranks of health IT professionals. Healthcare IT News et al.

Optimism Trumps Glitches at Health 2.0 Conference

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Despite technological glitches, the first day of the Health 2.0 Conference was largely positive, starting with the nation's Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra's urging health entrepreneurs to "invest together in the building blocks of innovation."

CCHIT To Certify Self-Developed EHR Systems Through New Program

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Health care providers that develop or customize their own electronic health record systems could seek certification from a new program offered by the Certification Commission for Health IT. CCHIT says it plans to launch the new program in mid-2010. Health Data Management.

Cerner Calls for Client Collaboration on New Health IT Initiatives

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Cerner's uCern project allows consumers to post personal health care stories through a social networking platform. The uDevelop project invites users to collaborate on health IT product improvements through an open-source model. Kansas City Business Journal, Kansas City Star.

Opinion: Many Factors Dictate Security of Electronic Records

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Patients must believe that their medical information is secure before they will have faith in electronic health records, according to John Halamka of Harvard Medical School and the federal Healthcare Information Technology Standards Panel. Computerworld.

FDA's Growing Role Regulating Health 2.0, Health IT

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

FDA will likely play an increasingly important role in regulating health IT, and it's important for Health 2.0 entrepreneurs and champions to participate in FDA's efforts.

Blumenthal Sends Open E-Mail Updating Public on 'Meaningful Use'

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:00:00 GMT

In an open e-mail, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal called for health care providers to familiarize themselves with current "meaningful use" recommendations. He said providers should begin moving toward EHR adoption. Government Health IT, Healthcare IT News.

Interoperability Issues Could Threaten Access to Health IT Incentives

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The federal stimulus package requires health care providers to share and exchange electronic health record data to qualify for federal incentive payments. Experts say a "network of networks" model could facilitate communication among EHR systems. AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Community Health Centers To Receive $27.8M for Health IT

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS' Health Resources and Services Administration announced that it will award $27.8 million in grants to help 27 community health centers adopt electronic health record systems. The grants also aim to help safety-net clinics achieve improved patient outcomes, create health data exchanges and implement dental health IT tools. Health Data Management et al.

Technology Incentives Not So Stimulating for Dentists

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Dentists are among the "eligible professionals" in line for federal stimulus money for using electronic health records, but some dental advocates are worried oral health may get short shrift in the current push toward digital record keeping.

Some Health IT Vendors Offer 'Meaningful Use' Compliance Guarantees

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Athenahealth, GE Healthcare and NextGen Healthcare Information Systems have offered guarantees that their products will meet the "meaningful use" requirements of the federal economic stimulus package. Officials have yet to issue final rules for meaningful use. Modern Healthcare.

Opinion: Industry Must Address New Health IT Work Force Needs

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Phil Bond, president of TechAmerica, and Harris Miller, president and CEO of the Career College Center, support the federal government's $19 billion investment in health care IT but question whether there will "be enough tech-savvy professionals to fully tap its potential." Politico.

New Web Site Aims To Help Safety-Net Clinics Plan Facility Upgrades

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Two groups recently launched a Web site that provides case studies, design strategies and literature reviews to help safety-net clinics improve their facilities. The federal economic stimulus package includes $1.5 billion for clinic construction and renovation. Modern Healthcare.

Advocates Question Whether Stimulus Package Will Help Safety-Net Clinics Adopt Health IT

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Kathy Lim Ko and Jane Stafford of the Community Clinics Initiative, Michael Lardiere of the National Association of Community Health Centers and Winston Wong of Kaiser Permanente discussed their concerns with iHealthBeat.

Health Data Breach Notification Rules To Take Effect This Week

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow, HHS is scheduled to implement a rule requiring health care providers to alert patients of health data security breaches. On Thursday, the Federal Trade Commission is scheduled to implement a companion rule that will apply to personal health record vendors and other entities not covered under HIPAA privacy and security regulations. Federal Computer Week, HealthLeaders Media.

Cardiologists Push for Widespread Adoption of VA's VistA EHR System

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

In an opinion piece, Sammy Zakaria and David Meyerson, cardiologists at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, argue that the Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture could be a "cheaper and more effective solution" to health IT adoption. Washington Post.

Policy Committee Holds Hearing on Health IT Privacy, Security

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Today, the Health IT Policy Committee heard testimony from health data privacy experts, such as Deborah Peel of Patient Privacy Rights and Susannah Fox of the Pew Internet & American Life Project. Several speakers said privacy and security protections should form the foundation of health IT projects. Healthcare IT News, Modern Healthcare.

Experts Discuss How Stimulus Funds Could Fuel Health IT Growth

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Dan Rode of the American Health Information Management Association said policymakers will face challenges as they finalize decisions on discretionary funding and "meaningful use" rules. Rode and others spoke during a Health IT Stimulus Summit in Boston. Health Data Management.

Nevada Governor Creates Task Force To Study Health Care IT

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons has charged a new task force with making recommendations on how to implement a health IT network in the state. Federal stimulus grants are supporting the state's health IT planning and implementation efforts. AP/San Jose Mercury News, Office of the Governor release.

Interest in Health IT Is High, but Challenges Remain, Experts Say

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

This week, experts at the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's annual conference discussed how the stimulus package could affect the future of health IT. Participants said incentive payments could spur widespread adoption of electronic health records. Healthcare IT News.

Blumenthal: Health IT Efforts Primarily Aim To Boost Care Quality

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

At a HIPAA summit this week, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said the federal economic stimulus package's health IT provisions aim to improve the quality of health care. Blumenthal also stressed the importance of health IT privacy and security. Healthcare IT News.

Standards Panel OKs Guidance on Privacy, Security of EHRs

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Health IT Standards Committee endorsed work group recommendations on how electronic health records should ensure the privacy and security of health information. The panel outlined specific guidelines for EHRs to meet by 2011 and 2013. The standards panel now will shift its focus to health IT implementation guidance. Health Data Management et al.

Michigan Seeks Federal Stimulus Funding for Health Data Exchange

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Michigan officials sent a letter to HHS detailing their plan to use federal stimulus funding to integrate the state's seven regional health information exchanges into a statewide network by 2012. Federal stimulus grants to states will range from $4 million to $40 million. Crain's Detroit Business et al.

Dell's Move Into EHRs Seen as Good Sign for Health Care

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Dell's decision to move into health IT in the middle of a tough economic climate is seen by some as another sign that health IT may be coming of age as an industry. The maturation process is getting a significant boost in the form of $19 billion in federal stimulus money.

Transition to EHRs Gains Ground, But Physician Resistance Remains

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The federal economic stimulus package allocated about $46 billion to help health providers transition to electronic health records. Still, some physicians say cost, training, privacy and interoperability challenges remain. CBS' "Sunday Morning."

Blumenthal Calls for Increased Research on Health IT Efficacy

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said the stimulus package should encourage researchers to study the effectiveness of health IT tools in different health care provider settings. Carolyn Clancy, director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, added that her agency will use stimulus funds to increase health IT research grants. Government Health IT.

Prospect of Stimulus Funds Helps Drive Up Health IT Stock Prices

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Investors anticipate that the federal economic stimulus package will compel more health care providers to purchase electronic health record systems. A recent report suggests that health IT stocks are maintaining significant gains compared with other industries. American Medical News.

Opinion: Some Stimulus Funding Should Be Directed Toward NHIN

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

John Loonsk, a former official at the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, argues that without any specific stimulus funding dedicated to the Nationwide Health Information Network, the U.S. runs the risk of creating 50 separate health IT networks. Federal Computer Week.

Firms Targeting Small Physician Practices for EHR Market Growth

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Although about three-quarters of U.S. physicians work in small practices, few have made significant investments in electronic health record tools. Health IT vendors are hoping the economic stimulus package will spur more small practices to adopt EHR systems. New York Times' "Bits."

Ohio Governor Taps Not-for-Profit Group To Lead Health IT Efforts

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Ohio Health Information Partnership, a not-for-profit, public-private collaboration, will work with the state Department of Insurance to develop a statewide electronic health record network for accessing patient information. Cleveland Plain Dealer's "Metro," Business First of Columbus.

IOM Report Calls for EHR Data Collection on Race, Ethnicity, Language

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Institute of Medicine is calling on HHS to include data on ethnicity, race and language proficiency in its electronic health record standards. IOM argues that the collection of such data would improve efforts to track racial and ethnic disparities in health care delivery. Government Health IT.

CCHIT Releases Details on New EHR Certification Programs

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Certification Commission for Health IT said it has updated its comprehensive electronic health record certification program for 2011. The group also plans to offer preliminary certification to help EHR systems meet forthcoming regulations on "meaningful use." CCHIT said it will provide incremental inspections to help EHRs meet final federal requirements. Healthcare IT News et al.

ONC Awards $1.2M for AHIMA's State Health Data Exchange Project

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The American Health Information Management Association Foundation is set to receive $1.2 million to continue its State-Level Health Information Exchange Consensus Project. The initiative aims to help state officials implement health data networks. Health Data Management et al.

Pharmacist Group Urges HHS To Amend HITECH Security Rules

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

In a recent letter to HHS' Office for Civil Rights, the National Community Pharmacists Association argues that the federal economic stimulus package's expanded HIPAA privacy and security regulations could create significant obstacles for small pharmacies. The group is pushing for exceptions for smaller community pharmacies. Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

A Lower Bar for Computerized Physician Order Entry Adoption -- Is It Worth It?

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Setting a lower computerized physician order entry adoption bar might appear to reduce the implementation stress on hospitals in the short term, but it could backfire. Aiming low would not save all that much effort, and it also might cause greater physician frustration and could even cause additional medication errors.

CMS Releases Guidance on Medicaid Incentive Payments for EHR Use

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:00:00 GMT

CMS announced that the federal government will reimburse state Medicaid programs that provide incentive payments to health care providers who demonstrate "meaningful use" of electronic health records. The agency also called for states to develop health IT plans. Health Data Management et al.

State, Local Government Spending on Health IT Expected To Increase

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A report from market research firm Input predicts that the federal stimulus package will drive an increase in state and local governments' health IT spending. According to the report, state and local health IT spending will grow from $7.6 billion in 2009 to $9.6 billion in 2014. Federal Computer Week.

ONC Offers Guidance on Grants for Health IT Extension Centers

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

In a Web conference yesterday, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT discussed its plans to award nearly $600 million in grants to establish 70 regional health IT extension centers nationwide. Officials said the program aims to help 100,000 primary care physicians demonstrate "meaningful use" of electronic health records. Government Health IT, Modern Healthcare.

Group Blasts Quality Improvement Targets for 'Meaningful Use'

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Federation of American Hospitals argues that officials should not require health care providers to meet outcome targets to demonstrate "meaningful use" of electronic health records. The group said such targets go beyond the scope of the stimulus package. Modern Healthcare.

New Group To Develop Tennessee Health Data Exchange Strategy

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Health Information Partnership for Tennessee was formed to bring together local, regional and state electronic health information efforts and resources to develop a statewide health data exchange plan. The group will use the plan to apply for federal stimulus funding. Knoxville News Sentinel, Tennessean.

Full Steam Ahead for CCHIT's New Certification Program

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Although the federal government has yet to issue a final definition for "meaningful use," the Certification Commission for Health IT says it will debut a new certification program in October based on preliminary recommendations from health IT advisory committees. The commission plans to host a Web conference on the new program next week. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

Work Groups Favor Phasing in Health IT Standards

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Health IT Standards Committee work groups recommend phasing in quality and data reporting standards, as well as privacy and security measures, as the federal stimulus package steers the health industry toward digital record keeping and sharing.

Report: Small Hospitals Value Clinician Adoption of IT Systems

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A new KLAS report finds that smaller community hospitals consider physician adoption when purchasing health IT systems. The report also notes that the economic stimulus package is encouraging more community hospitals to invest in electronic health systems. According to KLAS, smaller hospitals are most interested in Meditech and McKesson products. Healthcare IT News, Modern Healthcare.

Despite Health IT Funding, Many EHR Adoption Obstacles Remain

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Last week, Vice President Biden and HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced $1.2 billion in grants to help hospitals and physicians implement electronic health record systems. However, health care providers say they are reluctant to invest in EHRs before the government issues final standards on how they can demonstrate "meaningful use" of EHR systems. The Hill.

CMS Asks Vendors To Weigh In on Health Information Exchanges

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Last week, CMS published a request for information asking vendors to submit ideas by Oct. 1 for the National Gap Analysis and Readiness Assessment for the Health Information Technology Infrastructure. The project is related to the federal stimulus package. Federal Computer Week.

Standards Panel Approves Work Group Guidance on EHR Systems

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Health IT Standards Committee adopted recommendations on various clinical quality and performance measures that health care providers and vendors could include in electronic health record systems. The panel also heard recommendations on medical diagnostic codes, and health data privacy and security measures. Modern Healthcare et al.

Not All Stakeholders See Cost Savings in Health Care IT Transition

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration says health IT measures will generate cost savings by improving the efficiency of the health care industry. However, hospital officials are unsure whether they would see a return on their investment in electronic health record systems. CNNMoney.

Blumenthal: 'Meaningful Use' Definition Will Be Ready in Spring 2010

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said a preliminary definition for "meaningful use" of electronic health records will be released by the end of 2009, followed by a 60-day comment period. He said the final definition will be issued in mid- to late spring 2010. Health Data Management.

Biden, Sebelius Announce $1.2B in Grants for Health IT Adoption

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Today, Vice President Biden and HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the availability of nearly $1.2 billion in federal stimulus funding to help spur electronic health record adoption. According to officials, $598 million will go toward establishing 70 health IT centers to help providers acquire EHRs and $564 million will be used to develop a national health IT network. AP/Hartford Courant et al.

State CIOs To Play Key Role in Health IT Efforts, NASCIO Report Says

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A new report from the National Association of State CIOs urges state CIOs to convene health IT stakeholders, assess existing state infrastructure and determine state readiness for large-scale health information exchange. Modern Healthcare, Government Technology.

HHS Secretary Delegates HITECH Authority to National Coordinator

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

According to a notice published yesterday in the Federal Register, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has given National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal administrative authority over most of the grant and loan funding sections of the stimulus package's HITECH Act. Health Data Management.

Government Getting Lots of Advice But Decisions Rest With Blumenthal

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Two federal committees are offering advice this month, but ultimately the details of the government's plan to expand health IT across the country will be determined by National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal and his boss, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

Policy Committee OKs Plan To Establish Multiple EHR Certifiers

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

On Friday, the Health IT Policy Committee adopted recommendations that called for multiple organizations to provide official certification for electronic health record systems. The committee said the Certification Commission for Health IT could provide interim certification while officials continue to finalize criteria on the "meaningful use" of EHRs. Health Data Management et al.

Kentucky Creates Electronic Health Information Office

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Governor's Office of Electronic Health Information will serve as a single point of contact for state and federal agencies working on health IT initiatives. States are required to create such an office to receive federal stimulus funding. AP/Lexington Herald-Leader, Business First of Louisville.

Dartmouth College Gets $3M Grant To Develop Health Monitoring Tools

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Dartmouth College will use a $3 million federal grant to develop computer systems that allow physicians to monitor patients through mobile phone and wearable wireless medical sensors. Google, Intel and a Veterans Affairs medical center will participate in the project. AP/Nashua Telegraph.

Report: Interest in EHRs Likely Will Shape Impact of Incentives

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Health care providers who already have demonstrated interest in electronic health record systems are most likely to take advantage of the economic stimulus package's incentive payments, according to a new report from CSC. The report predicts that the health care industry will continue to provide health IT investment incentives over the coming years. Health Data Management.

CCHIT To Align Latest Certification Program With 'Meaningful Use'

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Certification Commission for Health IT will debut a new certification program in October. CCHIT said its new criteria will allow health care providers to demonstrate "meaningful use" of electronic prescribing systems and other modular tools. Government Health IT.

Academic, Community Health Group Aims To Shape Health IT Policy

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A new coalition of academic and community health systems plans to lobby for a seat at the table as policymakers work to implement the health IT provisions of the federal economic stimulus package. The group represents about 40 hospitals. Health Data Management, Healthcare IT News.

N.C. Health IT Firms See Business Prospects in Stimulus Package

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

North Carolina health IT vendors such as Physician Discoveries, Proficient Health and Talon for Healthcare are working to market new products in an attempt to benefit from the health IT provisions of the federal economic stimulus package. Business Journal of the Greater Triad Area.

Stimulus Package Addresses Medical Data Sales, Patient Privacy

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Under the economic stimulus package, pharmacies and other health groups could face tighter restrictions for selling personal prescription information to drugmakers and data-mining firms. Government agencies currently are working to develop final rules on the matter. New York Times.

Social Security Unveils Funds for Automating Disability Claims

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Last week, the Social Security Administration announced the availability of $24 million in contract funding for health care organizations that participate in an electronic disability claims processing project. Proposals are due Sept. 18. Healthcare IT News, Government Health IT.

Coalition Pushes for Health IT Provisions in Reform Legislation

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Health IT Coalition urged House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Henry Waxman to include health IT provisions in health reform legislation. The group of health care and technology stakeholders wants lawmakers to broaden the health IT incentive payments included in the federal stimulus package and expand the use of telemedicine. CongressDaily.

Google, Microsoft Question Government's Health IT Plans

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Google and Microsoft executives said the Obama administration's current health IT plans focus too heavily on older, proprietary health IT products. The executives argued that such an approach would hinder innovation. They spoke during the first meeting of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Nextgov.com et al.

Health Care Providers Slow To Invest in Health IT Systems, Experts Say

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Experts expect to see slow growth in health IT spending as hospitals and physicians carefully consider the benefits of various systems. Many health care providers are being cautious to ensure they choose a system that meets the federal stimulus package requirements. Health Data Management.

Governors' Alliance Issues Guide for States on Health IT Adoption

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The State Alliance for e-Health's new guide encourages states to prepare for federal health IT regulations by establishing offices and procedures related to health data exchanges. The alliance, which is part of the National Governors' Association, will meet Friday at its semi-annual conference to further discuss state-level health IT initiatives. AHA News, Healthcare IT News.

Small, Rural Hospital Takes Big Risk in Transitioning to EHRs

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A small, rural hospital in western Missouri is hoping to meet the federal government's not-yet-defined "meaningful use" criteria and qualify for federal stimulus funding. Facing a $370,000 budget deficit, the hospital is borrowing nearly $1 million to adopt electronic health records. AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

States Preparing for Health Data Exchange Stimulus Money

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:00:00 GMT

As state governments scramble to accept and spend stimulus money earmarked for health IT, two California groups have emerged to become the state's lead organization in health information exchange efforts -- in a race that has yet to be officially declared or described.