iHealthBeat: Meaningful Use

CMS Updates Application Process for Meaningful Use Exemptions

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 19:00:00 Z

CMS has announced a new application process for meaningful use hardship exemptions. The changes come after President Obama signed into law the Patient Access and Medicare Protection Act, which expands providers' eligibility for hardship exemptions for Stage 2 of the program. Healthcare Informatics, CMS release.

Study Highlights Variation in Health IT Use Among Rural Providers

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 17:11:00 Z

A new study published in Health Affairs finds meaningful use attestation rates vary considerably among different types rural providers. Meanwhile, the study shows the rates of health IT adoption are similar for urban and rural providers. FierceHealthIT, Health Affairs.

Slavitt, DeSalvo Clarify Upcoming Changes to Meaningful Use

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 17:27:00 Z

Yesterday, acting CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt and National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo offered more details about the upcoming changes to the meaningful use program. Among other things, they noted that the transition will take some time and that current regulations -- such as Stage 3 -- remain in effect. EHR Intelligence et al.

Meaningful Use Lives On

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 11:00:00 Z

Meaningful use called and said, "The rumors of my death are greatly exaggerated." In all seriousness, a careful parsing of acting CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt's comments last week does not lead to the conclusion that meaningful use as a construct is over, but rather that it is being absorbed into the Merit-based Incentive Payment System.

Stakeholders Cautiously Optimistic About Plan To End Meaningful Use

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:10:00 Z

Health IT groups largely support CMS' plan to phase out the meaningful use program and replace it "with something better." However, stakeholders say CMS needs to provide more information about its replacement plan and quickly take action to address concerns with Stage 3. Health Data Management et al.

Slavitt Announces Plan To Phase Out Meaningful Use Program

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 17:16:00 Z

Acting CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt says the agency plans to phase out the meaningful use program "as it has existed." According to Slavitt, the incentive program will be replaced by "something better" as the Medicare Access and Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act is implemented. EHR Intelligence et al.

Health IT Experts Weigh In on Trends for 2016

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 12:00:00 Z

Doug Fridsma, president and CEO of the American Medical Informatics Association, John Halamka, CIO of the Beth Israel Deaconess Health System, and Lynne Thomas Gordon, CEO of the American Health Information Management Association, spoke with iHealthBeat about the biggest issues and challenges facing the health IT sector this year.

Mass. Behavioral Health Providers Receive Health IT Funding Boost

Wed, 06 Jan 2016 17:06:00 Z

The Massachusetts eHealth Institute has awarded more than $1.3 million in grants to 25 behavioral health providers to help improve their use of health IT and safeguard patient health data. The grants were awarded as part of an initiative to support health IT use at organizations that are not eligible for incentives under the meaningful use program. Healthcare IT News, MeHI release.

Obama Signs Meaningful Use Hardship Exemption Legislation

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 18:24:00 Z

President Obama has signed into law a bill that aims to make it easier for providers to obtain hardship exemptions to Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. An official at the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives praised the bill's flexibility but said more must be done to fix the meaningful use program. EHR Intelligence, FierceEMR.

CMS, ONC Seek Input on Certification of EHRs Used for Reporting

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 16:49:00 Z

CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT have issued a request for information seeking feedback on ways to strengthen the testing and certification of electronic health records used for reporting quality measures under federal programs, such as the meaningful use program. Health Data Management et al.

CMS Unveils Draft Plan for New Payment Model Quality Measures

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:04:00 Z

CMS has released a draft plan for using and developing quality measures for new payment models under the Medicare Access and Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act. Among other things, MACRA encourages the use of certified electronic health records and addresses payment adjustments for the meaningful use program. Health Data Management et al.

Congress Passes Meaningful Use Hardship Exemption Legislation

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 18:10:00 Z

Congress has sent to President Obama a bill that aims to make it easier for providers to obtain hardship exemptions to Stage 2 of the meaningful use program by allowing CMS to grant a blanket exemption from 2015 penalties. Health Data Management, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

CMS Receives Mixed Feedback on Meaningful Use Stage 3 Final Rule

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 18:35:00 Z

More health care organizations have submitted comments on CMS' final rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. For example, the Consumer Partnership for eHealth says CMS should not delay Stage 3, while the American Medical Association says CMS needs to fix the "troubled" program. FierceEMR et al.

AHA, CHIME Comment on Final Rule for Stage 3 of Meaningful Use

Tue, 15 Dec 2015 17:48:00 Z

Comments on CMS' final rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program are due today, and several groups have filed their letters. For example, the American Hospital Association and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives are urging CMS to delay Stage 3 until 2019. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

DirectTrust Makes Predictions for the Future of Health Data Exchange

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 17:59:00 Z

DirectTrust has unveiled six predictions for the future of electronic health information exchange. For example, the industry alliance predicts that the meaningful use program will be phased out in 2016, while security and data protection will play a greater role in the face of increasing cyberattacks. EHR Intelligence et al.

Groups Offer Recommendations for Achieving EHR Interoperability

Tue, 08 Dec 2015 18:52:00 Z

A coalition of nine health care and IT groups has sent a letter to congressional leaders arguing that the meaningful use program has created new barriers to interoperability. The groups wrote that recent calls for delaying Stage 3 of the program should not be supported unless a delay is paired with reforms targeting interoperability. Health Data Management, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

AAFP Calls for a Meaningful Use 'Pause' To Transform Program

Mon, 07 Dec 2015 17:54:00 Z

In a letter to HHS, the American Academy of Family Physicians says the department should "pause" the implementation of meaningful use Stage 3 and transform the entire program to focus on interoperability and pending payment changes under the Medicare Access and Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act. Health Data Management, AAFP letter.

CMS Data Show 44% of EHR Incentive Payments Made in Eight States

Wed, 02 Dec 2015 19:04:00 Z

An analysis of CMS data finds that more than 44% of meaningful use program incentive payments made as of September went to eligible professionals and hospitals in eight states. Meaningful use incentive payments amounted to more than $1 billion in six of the eight states, while providers in California and Texas received more than $2 billion. Health IT Interoperability.

GOP Lawmakers Ask House Speaker To Help Fix Meaningful Use

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 18:24:00 Z

The GOP Doctors Caucus says it will work with House Speaker Paul Ryan to delay Stage 3 of the meaningful use program and grant a blanket hardship waiver for the 2015 Stage 2 reporting period through the legislative process. In a letter to Ryan, the caucus says doctors would benefit from the changes. FierceEMR, GOP Doctors Caucus letter.

AHA: Health IT Is 'Common Fiber' To Achieving Care Delivery Goals

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 17:57:00 Z

A new white paper from the American Hospital Association says that health IT is a key driver of efforts to improve quality across the care continuum because it directly enables patient engagement, care coordination, team-based care and new health care models. In the paper, AHA highlights the important role electronic health records will play in achieving care delivery goals. EHR Intelligence et al.

ONC Task Force Meets To Discuss Health IT Comparison Tool

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 19:03:00 Z

The newly created Certified Technology Comparison Task Force held its first meeting to outline its work plan and future goals. The task force is charged with recommending ways to create a new tool to upgrade the Certified Health IT Product List maintained by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT. FierceEMR et al.

Docs Back E-Care Coordination, Flag Meaningful Use Stage 3 Hurdles

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 18:57:00 Z

A new study finds that despite low information sharing rates, most physicians view electronic care coordination favorably. Meanwhile, study participants also report several barriers to meeting meaningful use Stage 3 care coordination rules, including time constraints and complex workflow changes. FierceEMR.

Meaningful Use Stage 3 Not Set in Stone; Make Your Voice Heard

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:00:00 Z

When CMS published the long-awaited final rule that modifies meaningful use requirements for 2015 through 2017 and establishes requirements for Stage 3 last month, it signaled that the Stage 3 regulations are not set in stone. CMS is accepting public feedback on the Stage 3 requirements until Dec. 15.

AMA Delegates Adopt Policies on Meaningful Use, Rx Drug Monitoring

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 18:24:00 Z

The American Medical Association has adopted two new health IT-related policies regarding the meaningful use program and using technology to combat opioid drug misuse. AMA Immediate Past Chair Barbara McAneny called for "swift Congressional action" to improve the meaningful use program for physicians. CMIO, Health IT Interoperability.

Groups Comment on Health IT Aspects of Medicare, CHIP Policies

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 17:22:00 Z

Several health care organizations have commented on the Medicare Access and Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, which addresses payment adjustments under the meaningful use program and Physician Quality Reporting System. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

Study Outlines Ways To Improve Meaningful Use Quality Measures

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 17:03:00 Z

A new study published in the American Journal of Managed Care recommends that clinical quality measures used in the meaningful use program focus on relevant, controllable metrics. The findings are based on focus groups involving 23 physicians from high-performing practices participating in the meaningful use program. EHR Intelligence, American Journal of Managed Care.

EHR Adoption Rates On the Rise Among U.S. Hospitals, Study Finds

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 19:11:00 Z

A new study published in Health Affairs finds the percentage of U.S. hospitals that have adopted a basic electronic health record system rose to more than 75% in 2014. The researchers attributed the uptick in EHR adoption rates to the meaningful use program's financial incentives and penalties. EHR Intelligence et al.

Bill Would OK Blanket Hardship Exemptions for Meaningful Use

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 19:00:00 Z

House Budget Committee Chair Tom Price has introduced a bill that would allow CMS to grant blanket hardship exemptions for the meaningful use program's 2015 reporting period. The bill aims to offer relief to eligible professionals and hospitals affected by the agency's delay in releasing the final rule for program modifications for 2015 through 2017. EHR Intelligence, Healthcare Informatics.

Medical Groups Urge Congress To 'Refocus' Meaningful Use Program

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 17:44:00 Z

Yesterday, the American Medical Association and more than 100 other medical societies sent letters calling on Senate and House lawmakers to "refocus" Stage 3 of the meaningful use program on the goal of achieving comprehensive interoperability. The provider groups argue that CMS has failed to adequately respond to the "widespread failure" of the program. EHR Intelligence et al.

Texas Medical Association Calls for Changes to Meaningful Use

Tue, 03 Nov 2015 17:52:00 Z

In a new letter, the Texas Medical Association calls on the state's congressional lawmakers to support two bills seeking to modify the meaningful use program. The group writes, "[W]e want Congress to reform the program and eliminate federal mandates that compel physicians to engage in unnecessary activities and reporting." Modern Healthcare's "Vital Signs," TMA release.

Del. Made $175K in Incorrect EHR Incentive Payments, OIG Audit Finds

Thu, 29 Oct 2015 16:57:00 Z

A new HHS Office of Inspector General audit finds the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services made an overpayment of about $175,000 to one hospital under the Medicaid meaningful use program between 2011 and 2013. The audit is the latest in a series of reports from OIG that examine state electronic health record incentive payments. FierceEMR, OIG audit.

AAFP's 'Speak Out' Tool Lets Members Urge Meaningful Use Delay

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 18:14:00 Z

The American Academy of Family Physicians has launched an online tool called "Speak Out" that allows members to contact their representatives and urge them to delay Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. AAFP notes that few providers have attested to Stage 2 and that the program would benefit from a delay to refocus its goals. Healthcare IT News et al.

Senate Committee Developing Legislation To Fix EHR Issues

Thu, 22 Oct 2015 16:06:00 Z

Earlier this month, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee concluded a series of six hearings to identify problems with electronic health records. Now the committee is developing a "medical innovation bill" to fix those issues, with priorities related to information blocking and improved access, among other things. National Journal.

Stakeholders' Response to CMS' Final Rule for Meaningful Use Mixed

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 17:14:00 Z

CMS' final rule for Stage of the meaningful use program and modifications for 2015 through 2017 has generated a lot of mixed feedback from industry stakeholders. While some stakeholder praised CMS' decision to ease Stage 2 meaningful use objectives, others criticized the rule's delay and raised concerns about Stage 3 requirements. HealthLeaders Media et al.

CMS, ONC Unveil Final Rules for Meaningful Use, EHR Certification

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 18:28:00 Z

CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT have released the final rules for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program, modifications for 2015 through 2017 and the 2015 Edition Health IT Certification Criteria. CMS also announced a 60-day public comment period to address lingering concerns from stakeholders. Health Data Management et al.

Proposed Meaningful Use Changes Affecting CMS' Attestation Data

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 16:49:00 Z

CMS says that the proposed meaningful use modifications for 2015 have made Medicare attestation data unavailable for the 2015 reporting periods. The available data, presented during today's Health IT Policy Committee hearing, show that program registrations among eligible professionals and hospitals rose between July and August. EHR Intelligence, CMS data.

AMA Calls for Automatic Hardship Exemptions for Meaningful Use

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 17:33:00 Z

Citing CMS' delay in releasing a final rule for meaningful use program modifications for 2015 through 2017, the American Medical Association is urging CMS to allow automatic hardship exemptions for eligible professionals who did not attest to Stage 2 of the incentive program this year. EHR Intelligence, FierceEMR.

Senate Committee Hearing Tackles Stage 3, Interoperability Concerns

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 17:25:00 Z

During a hearing yesterday, Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chair Lamar Alexander renewed his call to delay Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. Meanwhile, lawmakers and Obama administration officials also discussed strategies for improving electronic health record interoperability. Health Data Management et al.

OIG: Okla. Paid More Than $888K in Incorrect EHR Incentive Payments

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 17:47:00 Z

A federal audit finds that the Oklahoma Health Care Authority made $888,250 in overpayments to hospital-based providers participating in the Medicaid meaningful use program in 2011 and 2012. The audit also highlights data transmission issues between Oklahoma and CMS' systems. FierceEMR et al.

Senate Committee Chairs Call on HHS To Delay Stage 3 Final Rule

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:43:00 Z

Yesterday, the chairs of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions sent a letter urging HHS to delay the final rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program until at least Jan. 1, 2017. Health Data Management, HELP Committee release.

Lawmakers Call on HHS, OMB To Delay Final Stage 3 Rule

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 17:44:00 Z

A letter signed by 116 members of Congress urges HHS and the Office of Management and Budget to delay the final rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. The lawmakers write that a delay is needed to "refocus the program" and ensure health IT vendors have time to develop tools that enable interoperability. Heath Data Management, EHR Intelligence.

Medical Groups Urge HHS To Delay Meaningful Use Stage 3

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 18:31:00 Z

In letters to HHS and the Office of Management and Budget, the American Medical Association and 41 other medical societies are asking for officials to "pause" Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. The groups note that few providers have successfully participated in Stage 2 and "pivotal" changes to Medicare suggest a need to re-evaluate the proposed rule. Healthcare IT News et al.

ONC Data Show 83% of Physicians Used an EHR System in 2014

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 18:19:00 Z

A new Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT data brief shows 83% of office-based physicians were using an electronic health record system in 2014. The data show nearly three-quarters of physicians had adopted certified EHRs, including 55% of solo practitioners. EHR Intelligence et al.

Senate Committee Chair Calls for Delay of Meaningful Use Stage 3

Thu, 17 Sep 2015 16:33:00 Z

Yesterday, Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chair Lamar Alexander called for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program to be delayed until Jan. 1, 2017, and for the program modifications for 2015 through 2017 to be quickly implemented. Senators also heard testimony from three witnesses on ways to improve patient access to data. Modern Healthcare et al.

ONC Launches Online Form To File Complaints About Certified EHRs

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 17:18:00 Z

The Office of the National Coordinator has unveiled a new online form that individuals can use to lodge formal complaints about the functionality and usability of their certified electronic health records and other health IT products. ONC says the form will improve its ability to "triage, track, route and respond" to health IT complaints. Healthcare IT News et al.

'Gag Clauses' Common in EHR Contracts, Investigation Finds

Mon, 14 Sep 2015 18:21:00 Z

A Politico investigation finds many electronic health record vendors include language in their contracts that can prevent providers from publicly sharing information on software glitches and performance problems. Vendors say the so-called "gag clauses" help protect intellectual property from competitors and are rarely used. Politico.

ONC: Rate of EHR Replacements Among Providers Up Significantly

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 17:50:00 Z

New data show that the percentage of eligible professionals and hospitals that switched electronic health record vendors quadrupled between meaningful use program years 2013 and 2014. Meanwhile, Texas has made $15.3 million in incorrect EHR incentive payments under the Medicaid meaningful use program. Health Data Management et al.

ACOs Still Struggle To Access Out-Of-Network Data, Survey Finds

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 17:49:00 Z

A new survey by the eHealth Initiative finds that accessing out-of-network data is among the top challenges facing accountable care organizations. ACOs also cited data integration and new health IT costs as challenges. Politico's "Morning eHealth," eHealth Initiative webinar.

Some Certified EHR Vendors Fail To Meet ONC Requirements

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 17:46:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that some electronic health record vendors that are certified under the meaningful use program are not following the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's usability testing and design requirements. Health Data Management et al.

OMB Receives Final Rules for Meaningful Use Changes, Stage 3

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 16:45:00 Z

HHS has sent the Office of Management and Budget the final rules for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program and modifications to the program's requirements for 2015 through 2017. OMB has up to 90 days to complete the review unless it seeks an extension. Healthcare IT News, FierceEMR.

ONC Revokes Certification of Two EHR Products Over Noncompliance

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 17:13:00 Z

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT has decertified two versions of Platinum Health Information System's electronic health record for failing to comply with routine surveillance requests, meaning the EHR products no longer can be used to attest to the meaningful use program. Users can seek hardship exemptions as they transition to new EHR systems. Becker's Health IT & CIO Review et al.

MGMA: CMS Should Extend 2015 Meaningful Use Reporting Period

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 16:58:00 Z

The Medical Group Management Association is urging CMS to extend the meaningful use reporting period for 2015 to include the first 90 days of 2016, citing concerns about the agency's delay in finalizing proposed short-term modifications for the program. MGMA also recommends CMS adopt a 90-day reporting period for 2016. FierceEMR et al.

Meaningful Use Payments Reached $31.3B as of July 31, CMS Says

Fri, 28 Aug 2015 16:20:00 Z

New CMS data show that meaningful use incentive payments have surpassed $31 billion and 543,524 active participants have signed up for the program as of the end of July. The data show nearly $20.9 billion was paid through the Medicare program and $9.98 billion was paid through the Medicaid program. FierceEMR et al.

Proposed Certification Changes Could Mean Uptick in Modular EHRs

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 17:37:00 Z

The number of providers who use modular electronic health record systems to attest to meaningful use could increase under proposed health IT certification criteria for 2015. An analysis of federal data shows Cerner was the leading vendor for modular EHR software used in a hospital inpatient setting in 2014. Modern Healthcare.

Meaningful Use Closing Digital Divide Between Rural, Urban Hospitals

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 16:57:00 Z

An analysis of recent CMS data finds that the meaningful use program has helped close the digital gap between small, rural hospitals and larger urban facilities. For example, about 32% of hospitals with fewer than 100 beds have attested to Stage 2 using a "complete EHR," compared with 34% of larger hospitals. Modern Healthcare.

Effect of Meaningful Use on EHR Adoption 'Insignificant,' Study Finds

Thu, 13 Aug 2015 18:05:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that there is "weak evidence" that the meaningful use program and its incentives have had a large effect on the rate of electronic health record adoption. However, a blog post rejects the findings, noting that researchers used old data and missed some key statistics. FierceEMR et al.

Senate Approves Bill To Exempt ASCs From EHR Incentive Program

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 17:25:00 Z

The Senate has passed a bill that would exclude patient encounters at ambulatory surgical centers from the meaningful use program. The Ambulatory Surgery Center Association praised the vote and noted that the Senate must work with the House to reconcile their slightly different versions of the legislation. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

Hospital Groups Urge HHS To Finalize Meaningful Use Changes

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 16:52:00 Z

A group of eight hospital organizations in a letter to HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell urge the agency to finalize some of the proposed changes to the meaningful use program for 2015 through 2017. The groups note that HHS' delay in finalizing the rule has made it "virtually impossible" to meet requirements related to electronic prescribing and public health reporting. AHA News, et al.

CMS' IPPS Final Rule for FY 2016 Has Health IT Implications

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 17:28:00 Z

CMS' inpatient prospective payment system final rule for fiscal year 2016 includes several health IT requirements. The final rule factors in whether facilities were meaningful users of electronic health records in FY 2014 and requires hospitals to report four out of 28 electronic clinical quality measures over one quarter. AHA News et al.

Groups Urge CMS To Finalize Meaningful Use Modifications

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 16:40:00 Z

In a letter sent last week, 18 health IT groups urge CMS to quickly finalize its proposed changes to the meaningful use program. The groups warn that providers and vendors need adequate time to make the workflow changes necessary "to be able to meet the reporting deadlines for 2015 and continue participation in the program." Health Data Management, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

New House Bill Seeks To Delay, Modify Meaningful Use Stage 3

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 16:57:00 Z

Rep. Renee Ellmers has introduced a bill that seeks to delay federal rulemaking for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program until at least 2017. In addition, the legislation seeks to expand hardship exemptions for providers, implement a 90-day reporting period for each year and bolster electronic health record interoperability. Health Data Management et al.

AAFP Continues To Raise Concerns Over Meaningful Use Audits

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 17:12:00 Z

In a new letter to CMS, the American Academy of Family Physicians raised concerns over the burdens placed on physicians by meaningful use audits. The organization previously sent a letter in April to CMS citing similar concerns but has not received an answer. FierceEMR, AAFP release.

Senate Committee To Urge HHS To Delay Meaningful Use Stage 3

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 17:06:00 Z

After a Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee hearing on electronic health record interoperability and information blocking practices yesterday, committee Chair Lamar Alexander announced that the panel would urge HHS to delay implementation of Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. Modern Healthcare et al.

Opinion Piece Takes Issue With Proposed Meaningful Use Stage 3 Rule

Thu, 23 Jul 2015 16:30:00 Z

Brookings Institution Center for Technology Innovation Fellow Niam Yaraghi in an opinion piece argues that the proposed objectives for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program are unrealistic. He writes that health information exchange will start "when economic incentives are aligned." Brookings Institution's "TechTank."

Physicians Voice Dissatisfaction With EHRs During AMA Town Hall

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 17:34:00 Z

As part of its efforts to delay Stage 3 of the meaningful use program, the American Medical Association yesterday hosted a town hall meeting for physicians to express their dissatisfaction with electronic health records and the EHR incentive program. Providers cited several concerns, including health data security and interoperability. HealthLeaders Media et al.

Managing Change: The Key to a Successful Digital Health Revolution

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 11:00:00 Z

The potential for health IT to dramatically improve the practice environment is undeniable, but we need to refine our approach. We must achieve interoperability, increase flexibility in the meaningful use program, improve the electronic health record vendor certification process, reduce costs and enhance security.

OIG: Ark. Made $1.2M in Incorrect Medicaid EHR Incentive Payments

Tue, 07 Jul 2015 17:56:00 Z

An HHS Office of Inspector General audit finds that the Arkansas Department of Human Services made incorrect Medicaid meaningful use incentive payments totaling $1.2 million to 14 hospitals. The report finds that eight hospitals were overpaid by a total of $652,581, while five hospitals were underpaid by a total of $573,153. EHR Intelligence, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

Use of Diabetes Registries for Meaningful Use Improves Care

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:00:00 Z

A new study finds that providers' use of diabetes registries to meet meaningful use objectives is associated with higher quality health care and reduced rates of hospitalizations among patients with Type 2 diabetes. EHR Intelligence et al.

Eligible Hospitals Can Attest to First Year of Meaningful Use in 2015

Wed, 01 Jul 2015 17:41:00 Z

Under a recent CMS rule change, eligible hospitals participating in the Medicare meaningful use program for the first time will be able to attest starting this summer. Previously, such participants had been required to wait until January 2016 to attest to the program. AHA News et al.

Meaningful Use Bill To Exempt Ambulatory Surgical Centers Advances

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 17:08:00 Z

Yesterday, the Senate Finance Committee advanced a bill that would exclude patient encounters at ambulatory surgical centers from the meaningful use program until the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT develops electronic health record certification standards for the facilities. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

Former Texas CFO Sentenced to Prison for Meaningful Use Fraud

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 18:26:00 Z

A federal judge has sentenced Joe White, former CFO of Texas-based Shelby Regional Medical Center, to 23 months in prison for his involvement in an effort to defraud the meaningful use program. White already had agreed to pay about $4.4 million in restitution for his involvement in the scheme. Healthcare IT News.

Advocates Urge CMS To Reverse its Plan To Lower Patient Engagement Bar

Thu, 18 Jun 2015 10:00:00 Z

Patient advocates are hoping to stop a CMS proposal to dramatically lower the patient engagement bar providers must meet under Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. In response to provider complaints, CMS proposed reducing the 5% threshold for patients to view, download or transmit their health records to one single patient.

Experts Say U.S. Should 'Stay the Course' on Meaningful Use

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 17:14:00 Z

During the second Senate hearing in a series on ways to improve electronic health records, health IT experts said that the U.S. health care system should continue moving forward with the meaningful use program. They also made several recommendations to address flaws in the incentive program. Modern Healthcare et al.

Groups Praise, Urge Caution for Meaningful Use Modifications

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 17:08:00 Z

Several groups have submitted comments on CMS' proposed meaningful use modifications for 2015 through 2017. Some stakeholders praised CMS' proposal to ease reporting requirements, while others cautioned against proposals to reduce patient engagement requirements. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

Senate Committee, Stakeholders Look To Address Health IT Issues

Thu, 11 Jun 2015 17:50:00 Z

Yesterday, lawmakers on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee heard testimony from stakeholders on issues surrounding the meaningful use program, electronic health record interoperability and patients' access to data. The meeting marked the first in a series aimed at identifying solutions to health IT problems. FierceHealthIT et al.

Study Finds Disparities Between Early, Late EHR Adopters

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:49:00 Z

A study published in Health Affairs finds that early adopters of electronic health records are more likely to continue participating in the meaningful use program than those who did not use EHRs until after the program began. The research looked at meaningful use participation among more than 26,000 physicians in New York between 2011 and 2012. EHR Intelligence et al.

House Bill Would Include Mental Health Providers in Meaningful Use

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 17:13:00 Z

Lawmakers have reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would expand the types of eligible professionals and eligible hospitals that can receive meaningful use incentive payments to include behavioral health and substance misuse treatment professionals and facilities. The bill is supported by the Behavioral Health IT Coalition. Health Data Management, Politico's "Morning eHealth."

Two Experts Weigh In on Harms, Benefits of Meaningful Use Program

Thu, 04 Jun 2015 18:24:00 Z

Charles Krauthammer in the Washington Post argues that the federal electronic health record incentive program is driving physicians to leave the profession. Meanwhile, Tom Leary of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society disagrees, arguing that "IT improves health." Washington Post, HIMSS blog post.

Health Care Groups Offer Changes to CMS' Proposed Stage 3 Rule

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 17:50:00 Z

Several stakeholder groups are urging CMS to modify its proposed rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program and delay finalization of the rule until current issues with the program are addressed. Meanwhile, the American Hospital Association urged the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT to increase transparency and the reliability of certified health IT. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

Groups Comment on Various Meaningful Use Program Proposals

Thu, 28 May 2015 17:02:00 Z

Stakeholders have submitted comments on three recently proposed rules related to the meaningful use program. Several groups said they supported the proposals and offered recommendations to enhance the program, while others urged changes to Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. EHR Intelligence et al.

Most Health Care Providers Lack Health IT Roadmaps, Report Finds

Wed, 27 May 2015 17:07:00 Z

A new report finds that more than half of health care providers lack a roadmap for implementing health IT, even though most recognize the technology's potential for improving care efficiency. Meanwhile, the report states that the federal government's increased focus on interoperability likely will boost development in the health IT market. FierceHealthIT, Frost & Sullivan release.

Meaningful Use Payments Top $30B as of March, CMS Says

Tue, 26 May 2015 17:58:00 Z

New CMS data show that meaningful use incentive payments exceeded $30 billion as of March. More than $20 billion was paid through the Medicare program, $9.4 billion was paid through Medicaid and $400 million was paid through Medicare Advantage. Becker's Health IT & CIO Review et al.

Groups Urge CMS To Reference EHRs in New ACO Model Proposal

Thu, 21 May 2015 18:16:00 Z

A coalition of 12 advocacy groups has sent a letter to CMS, urging the agency to explicitly reference electronic health records in its "Next Generation Accountable Care Organization Model" request for applications and reinstate meaningful use as a quality measure. The groups say doing so also could bolster data sharing knowledge. FierceHealthcare et al.

Few Patient-Centered Medical Homes Using IT for Care Coordination

Thu, 14 May 2015 16:21:00 Z

A new study finds that most doctors at patient-centered medical homes are not leveraging health IT to bolster care coordination, which is a top priority for them. When asked about the largest barriers to using electronic care coordination methods, respondents cited issues using IT or electronic health records, as well as money and time. FierceEMR, Annals of Family Medicine.

Federal Work Groups Respond to Meaningful Use Stage 3 Proposal

Wed, 13 May 2015 15:52:00 Z

Health IT Policy Committee work groups generally agree with CMS' proposed rule for Stage 3 of the meaningful use program. However, the work groups suggest changes to some program requirement thresholds for patient engagement and health information exchange. Health Data Management et al.

Study: E-Prescribing Associated With Fewer Adverse Drug Events

Thu, 07 May 2015 17:28:00 Z

A new study finds a link between higher electronic prescribing use by providers and lower rates of adverse drug events among their patients. The researchers say the findings support previous research linking the meaningful use program with fewer adverse drug events. FierceEMR.

CMS Issues 2016 Update for Electronic Clinical Quality Measures

Wed, 06 May 2015 17:08:00 Z

CMS has released new electronic clinical quality measures for providers to use for the agency's quality reporting programs for 2016. Specifically, CMS has unveiled 29 updated measures for eligible hospitals and 64 updated measures for eligible professionals. EHR Intelligence et al.

EHRs Increasingly Included in Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

Tue, 05 May 2015 16:56:00 Z

A review of data by a physician-owned medical malpractice insurer finds that while electronic health record systems were involved in just 1% of a sample of lawsuits that had been closed between 2007 and 2013, the frequency of such EHR-related closed cases doubled between 2013 and 2014. Politico, Computerworld.

Senators Announce Working Group To Address EHR Adoption Issues

Thu, 30 Apr 2015 18:24:00 Z

Yesterday, Sens. Lamar Alexander and Patty Murray officially announced the formation of a bipartisan working group to identify ways to improve electronic health records. Among other things, the working group will address issues related to interoperability, data security and patient safety. FierceEMR, Healthcare IT News.

KLAS Names Top EHR Vendors for Facilitating Patient Portal Adoption

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 16:15:00 Z

A new KLAS report finds that athenahealth, Epic and Medfusion are the top three electronic health records vendors at assisting customers with patient portal adoption. More than half of customers at each of the vendors had at least 20% of patients access online portals. Becker's Health IT & CIO Review et al.

CMS Releases Payment, Penalty Data for PQRS, e-Rx Program

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 17:43:00 Z

CMS data show more than 460,000 Medicare providers will see reimbursement cuts of 1.5% this year for failing to submit quality data in 2013 under CMS' Physician Quality Reporting System. The data also show participation in CMS' electronic prescribing incentive program grew by 9% between 2012 and 2013, reaching more than 377,000 participants. Wall Street Journal et al.

HHS Commits To Working With Senate on EHR Adoption Issues

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 17:09:00 Z

During a Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing yesterday, HHS Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell committed to helping the Senate identify and address issues related to electronic health records. In response to lawmakers' concerns about the ICD-10 transition, Burwell said HHS will "continue to work" with the small group of providers who are not ready. Health Data Management et al.

Study: HITECH Helped Promote EHR Use, but Usability Issues Remain

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 17:59:00 Z

A new study suggests that there is widespread acknowledgement that the HITECH ACT has spurred the adoption of electronic health records in hospitals and ambulatory settings. However, the study finds issues with usability, interoperability and payment models continue to be barriers to improving care. EHR Intelligence et al.

CMS' Inpatient Payment Proposal Would Align Quality Measurement

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 17:29:00 Z

CMS has issued its inpatient prospective payment system proposed rule for fiscal year 2016, which includes a 1.1% increase to payments for acute-care hospitals that are meaningful users of electronic health records and submit data on quality metrics. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

HIMSS15: Federal Health Officials 'Optimistic' About Future of Health IT

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 14:00:00 Z

National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo and acting CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt are "optimistic" about leveraging health IT to improve care and reduce costs. They also discussed the importance of interoperability and Congress' increased interest in health IT policy.

Experts Discuss Meaningful Use Changes, Shortcomings at HIMSS15

Thu, 16 Apr 2015 18:19:00 Z

At the HIMSS15 conference this week, health IT stakeholders have discussed the effects of the meaningful use program and health IT. For example, one stakeholder criticized the program for creating new problems, while others said health IT would help address challenges as they arise. EHR Intelligence et al.

Senate Passes SGR Replacement Bill With Health IT Implications

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 17:46:00 Z

Yesterday, the Senate approved legislation that would replace Medicare's sustainable growth rate formula and could bolster the use of telemedicine and other health IT tools. The bill, which is expected to be signed by President Obama, was met with general approval from stakeholder groups. Politico's "Morning eHealth" et al.

HIMSS15: A Health System Ripe for Change

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:17:00 Z

Humana President and CEO Bruce Broussard made a plea for conference attendees to "change the conversation" in health care. Meanwhile, National Coordinator for Health IT Karen DeSalvo discussed how legislation to permanently replace the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula could affect federal health IT efforts.

HIMSS15: Patient Engagement Tug-of-War

Tue, 14 Apr 2015 13:31:00 Z

Patient engagement has emerged as a hot topic at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's annual conference. The timing is interesting, given that CMS just proposed a rule that significantly scales back the patient engagement requirements under the meaningful use program.

CMS Proposes Rule To Shorten 2015 MU Reporting Period

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 16:45:00 Z

CMS has proposed a rule that would shorten Medicare and Medicaid meaningful use attestation to a 90-day period in 2015 and better align Stage 1 and Stage 2 program requirements with those recently proposed for Stage 3. Stakeholders generally have praised the shortened reporting period. Modern Healthcare et al.