iHealthBeat: Meaningful Use

How Confident Are Organizations in Their Readiness for Stage 1 of Meaningful Use?

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Forty-eight percent of surveyed hospital and health system leaders said they are confident in their organization's level of readiness to meet Stage 1 requirements for the meaningful use program, while 3% said they are not confident at all, according to a report by KPMG, an audit, tax and advisory services firm.

High Court Ruling Not Expected To Impair Health IT

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health IT plays a key role in health reform law provisions related to health insurance exchanges and accountable care organizations. Even if the Supreme Court strikes down the overhaul, experts say health IT will continue to support efforts to transform the U.S. health care system.

Public Hospital Group Seeks More Flexibility in Meaningful Use Rules

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a new issue brief, the National Association of Public Hospitals & Health Systems offered several recommendations for increasing flexibility in the meaningful use program, such as allowing a three-year timeframe between the Stage 1 and Stage 2 deadlines for the program. FierceHealthIT.

Experts Offer Guidance on How To Participate in EHR Incentive Program

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an Archives of Internal Medicine article, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari, former CMS Administrator Donald Berwick and other experts provide information about the meaningful use program and offer guidance to help health care providers participate. MedPage Today.

ONC Must Go Further To Achieve Flexibility in its 2014 Edition

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's proposed rule outlining standards and criteria for the certification of EHRs under the meaningful use program is a step in the right direction, but it doesn't go far enough in creating true flexibility.

CMS Publishes Data on Recipients of Medicare EHR Incentive Payments

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS has published a list of health care providers, as well as a list of hospitals, that have received Medicare incentive payments through the meaningful use program. The agency plans to update the lists, which are organized by state, on a quarterly basis. Government Health IT.

Calif. REC Helping More Than 7,700 Health Care Providers Adopt EHRs

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Health Information Partnership and Services Organization has signed up more than 7,700 health care providers seeking to adopt electronic health records. It says members have earned more than $65 million in federal incentive payments. Healthcare IT News et al.

More Industry Groups Release Comments on Stage 2 Proposed Rules

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The American College of Cardiology, the Certification Commission for Health IT, the Medical Group Management Association and the National Committee for Quality Assurance recently submitted comments on Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. CMIO et al.

Tavenner Acknowledges Health Care Industry's Concerns on Stage 2

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During the American Hospital Association's annual meeting, acting CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner acknowledged some of the hospital industry's concerns about Stage 2 of the meaningful use program and said CMS is reviewing stakeholders' feedback. Modern Healthcare et al.

AMA, Industry Stakeholders Submit Comments on Stage 2

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the American Medical Association and 98 state and specialty medical societies sent a letter to CMS indicating that some of the proposed criteria for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program would be cumbersome for physicians to implement. Several other industry stakeholders and consumer advocacy groups also submitted comments on the proposed rules. Healthcare IT News et al.

HIMSS EHR Association Submits Comments on Stage 2 Proposed Rules

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's Electronic Health Record Association is calling for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program to include fewer clinical quality measures and more time for EHR upgrades. Healthcare IT News, Health Data Management.

Policy Panel Discusses Stage 2 Requirements on Entering Data in EHRs

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, members of the Health IT Policy Committee discussed whether Stage 2 of the meaningful use program should allow licensed professionals and scribes to enter orders into electronic health record systems on behalf of physicians. Healthcare IT News.

Premier Urges CMS To Release Final Stage 2 Rules by August

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Premier healthcare alliance has submitted comments on the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. The group urged CMS to publish the Stage 2 final rules by August to avoid compromising hospitals' ability to meet program criteria by 2014. Healthcare IT News.

Advocates Criticize AHA's Stance on Patient Access to Health Data

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Several advocates have criticized the American Hospital Association for recommending looser patient access requirements in its comment letter on Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. AHA said it supports a 30-day window for providing patients with access to their health data after discharge, rather than the 36-hour timeframe proposed by CMS. Health Data Management et al.

Health Systems Spending Billions To Prepare for the 'Last War'

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The meaningful use program supports health IT systems optimized for the "do more, bill more" reimbursement model that is rapidly being replaced by a focus on value and outcomes. To support the array of new demands, health IT systems will need to be nimble, affordable and patient-centered.

GAO Calls for Improvements in CMS' Oversight of EHR Program

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Government Accountability Office report recommends that CMS take certain steps to improve its process for verifying that health care providers qualify for incentive payments through the meaningful use program. For example, GAO suggests that CMS consider conducting more prepayment verifications for the Medicare meaningful use program. Health Data Management et al.

CHIME Calls for 90-Day Reporting Period for Meaningful Use Stage 2

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In letters to two federal agencies, the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives recommends the creation of a 90-day reporting period for the first year in which health care providers attest to Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. Modern Healthcare et al.

AHA Says Meaningful Use Program Might Be Overly Ambitious

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a letter to CMS, the American Hospital Association said that the meaningful use program might be too ambitious to achieve its goals. Meanwhile, Rep. Renee Ellmers is urging CMS to exempt certain health care providers from penalties if they fail to achieve meaningful use. Bloomberg et al.

Driving Interoperable Health Data Exchange Under HITECH

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Recent federal regulations -- including the Stage 2 meaningful use and 2014 electronic health record standards and certification proposed rules -- are advancing HITECH's vision for an interoperable, nationwide health information network that improves the quality and efficiency of health care.

Fitch Ratings: EHR Incentive Pay Boosted Hospitals' Bottom Lines

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report from Fitch Ratings finds that electronic health record incentive payments from the meaningful use program helped increase the bottom line of for-profit hospital companies by nearly $400 million last year. The report's authors said that last year's meaningful use incentive payments were "modest" and that they expect to see larger payments in 2012 and 2013. Modern Healthcare.

Viewpoint: Challenges to Health Data Sharing Must Be Addressed

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent viewpoint published in the Journal of the American Medical Association argues that overcoming barriers to sharing electronic health data is critical to improving the U.S. health care system. The viewpoint outlines major challenges that are hindering more widespread health information exchange and offers recommendations for overcoming such barriers. CMIO.

Study Finds Discrepancy Between Plans, Ability To Meet Meaningful Use

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Health Affairs study finds that 51% of U.S. doctors said they plan to apply for meaningful use incentives, but only 11% reported having an electronic health record system that meets at least 10 Stage 1 core requirements. Healthcare IT News, Health Affairs' "Health Affairs Blog."

Small, Rural Health Providers Lag in EHR Adoption, Studies Find

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Small, rural physician groups and hospitals have been slower to adopt electronic health record systems than their larger, urban counterparts, according to two new Health Affairs studies. To address such issues, researchers called for policymakers to provide more support and incentives to health care providers lagging in EHR adoption. Modern Healthcare, Health Affairs' "Health Affairs Blog."

'Tiger Team' Reviews Input on Meaningful Use Stage 2 Proposals

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In its draft comments on the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program, the Health IT Policy Committee's privacy and security "Tiger Team" identified certain Policy Committee recommendations that did not make it into the proposed rules. Modern Healthcare.

Work Group Finalizing Input on Meaningful Use Stage 2 Proposed Rule

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a Health IT Policy Committee work group discussed how the proposed rule for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program could best incorporate clinical quality measures. The group will deliver its final recommendations to the committee on May 4. Modern Healthcare.

Providers Make Progress in EHR Adoption, Challenges Remain

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Most U.S. hospitals and health care systems responding to a KPMG poll said they are more than halfway along in their adoption of an electronic health record system. However, the poll finds that many health care providers still face challenges related to demonstrating meaningful use of EHRs, such as not understanding the program's requirements. Healthcare IT News, Health Data Management.

CMS: Health Care Providers Have Nabbed $4.5B in EHR Incentives

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New CMS data show that 76,612 eligible professionals and hospitals had received $4.5 billion in Medicare and Medicaid meaningful use incentive payments as of last month. The report finds that during the first quarter of 2012, the number of eligible professionals and hospitals registered for the program increased by 29% and 13%, respectively. Government Health IT et al.

Louisiana First To Issue Second-Year Medicaid EHR Incentive Payments

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Louisiana health center is the first provider to receive second-year Medicaid incentive payments for the meaningful use of electronic health record systems. To receive first-year payments, Medicaid providers only needed to adopt certified EHR systems. Modern Healthcare.

Federal Health IT Activity Continues in First Quarter of 2012

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Federal health IT efforts continued in the first quarter of 2012, with the release of proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use incentive program and the appointment of Todd Park as the country's new chief technology officer.

CMS Issues Corrections for Stage 2 Meaningful Use Proposed Rule

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, CMS published a notice in the Federal Register outlining corrections to its proposed rule for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. CMS says the notice "corrects technical and typographical errors in the proposed rule." Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

CMS Releases Quality Measures for MU Stage 2 Proposed Rules

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS has published a list of clinical quality measures included in the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. Under the Stage 2 proposals, eligible professionals would need to meet 12 clinical quality measures out of a list of 125, and hospitals would need to meet 24 measures out of a list of 49. CMS is accepting public comment on the measures through May 7. CMIO et al.

Study: Need for Health IT Workers Greater Than Expected in Texas

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a new Texas State University-San Marcos study, Texas will need 10,000 more health IT workers by 2013. The study calls previous estimates that the state would need 3,500 additional health IT workers between 2010 and 2015 "grossly inaccurate." Austin Business Journal.

MedPAC Raises Concern About Meaningful Use Attestation

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At a meeting yesterday, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission raised concerns about the small number of eligible professionals and hospitals that have successfully attested to meaningful use. Of those who registered for the meaningful use program, only 16% of hospitals and 6% of eligible professionals have received incentive payments, according to new data. AHA News, Modern Healthcare.

Senator: Dismantling Health Reform Would Hurt Health IT

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse's office released a report stating that dismantling the health reform law could negatively affect health IT adoption. The report notes the reform law includes provisions designed to advance the goals of the meaningful use program by incorporating health IT into the accountable care organization program and other initiatives. FierceEMR et al.

Policy Group Mulls Proposed Stage 2 Rules for Meaningful Use

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Health IT Policy Committee discussed the proposed requirements for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. The panel weighed issues related to the proposed Stage 2 criteria on data collection and information exchange. Government Health IT, Healthcare IT News.

E-Health Record Adoption: A Look Under the Hood

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Several recent surveys show that electronic health record adoption is growing across the country -- a possible indication that the federal government's meaningful use program is working. However, a closer look at the numbers indicates that EHR adoption still has a long way to go.

CMS Extends Deadline for Professionals To Appeal MU Eligibility

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS extended by one month the deadline for health care providers to appeal their eligibility determination for payment year 2011 of the meaningful use program. Health care professionals now have until April 30 to file an appeal. Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

Groups Urge CMS To Re-Evaluate 'Imminent Storm' of Regulations

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The American Medical Association, physician specialty groups and state medical associations have sent a letter to acting CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner urging the agency to reconsider overlapping federal regulations scheduled to go into effect next year. The regulations include the meaningful use and electronic prescribing incentive programs. Modern Healthcare et al.

Final HIPAA Omnibus Rule Edges Closer to Official Publication

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Federal officials have sent the final HIPAA Omnibus Rule to the Office of Management and Budget for review, one of the last steps before the rule can be published in the Federal Register. The omnibus rule combines four separate rulemakings on health data privacy. CMIO et al.

Federal Officials Outline Goals, Progress on Meaningful Use

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a recent CMS blog post, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari and CMS Acting Administrator Marilyn Tavenner wrote that they have set a goal of helping 100,000 health care providers qualify for meaningful use incentive payments this year. Mostashari and Tavenner also outlined the progress that states are making in the meaningful use program. Modern Healthcare.

Experts Call for Adding Health IT Training to Educational Programs

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a Health Affairs article, experts identify ways to integrate health IT-related training into medical education and professional development programs. For example, the authors recommend integrating health IT-related questions into medical licensing board exams. CMIO.

Meaningful Use Stage 2: Raising the Bar With Exchange, Standards, Engagement

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

If the final rule on Stage 2 of the meaningful use program mirrors the recently released proposed rule, it will serve as an impetus for health care providers to advance in information exchange, patient engagement and high-quality, real-time data capture.

Big, Small EHR Vendors Both Support Hospitals Attesting to Stage 1 MU

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A KLAS report finds that both large and small vendors of electronic health record systems have helped hospitals attest to Stage 1 of the meaningful use program. The report also examines hospitals' challenges with their EHR systems. Healthcare Informatics, KLAS report.

Authors of Health Affairs Study Reply to Mostashari's Criticism

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The authors of a Health Affairs study -- which suggested that electronic health records could encourage doctors to order imaging tests more often -- have responded to criticism from National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari. The authors wrote that some of Mostashari's assertions are "mistaken." Boston Globe's "White Coat Notes," Health Affairs' "Health Affairs Blog."

Mostashari Calls for Feedback on Meaningful Use Stage 2 Proposals

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During the American Medical Group Association's annual conference last week, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari urged health care stakeholders to submit public comments on the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. Modern Healthcare.

Comment Period Officially Opens for Proposed Rules on Stage 2

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT officially published in the Federal Register the two proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program, kicking off a 60-day public comment period. Stakeholders can submit comments on the two proposed rules through the federal government's Regulations.gov website. Health Data Management, Government Health IT.

30% of Surveyed Doctors Have Adopted EHRs That Meet MU Requirements

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Thirty percent of health care providers surveyed for a report by The Doctors Company say they have adopted an electronic health record system that meets meaningful use requirements. Seventeen percent of surveyed providers say they have no EHR adoption plans. FierceEMR et al.

National Coordinators Discuss Meaningful Use, Other Health IT Issues

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a Health Affairs interview with former National Coordinator for Health IT David Brailer, current National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari said he expects 40% of primary care providers to have a basic electronic health record system in place by the end of this year. FierceHealthIT, Health Affairs.

Hospitals Ineligible for Incentive Payments Lag Behind in EHR Adoption

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospitals that are ineligible for meaningful use incentive payments are significantly less likely to adopt electronic health records, a new study finds. Researchers recommend that policymakers consider low-interest loans to help those providers transition to EHRs. AHA News, Health Affairs.

Ezekiel Emanuel: Results of HITECH Act 'Nothing Short of Spectacular'

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an opinion piece, former White House adviser Ezekiel Emanuel credits the HITECH Act with significantly boosting electronic health record adoption. However, he notes that there is concern about whether escalation of the incentive program will occur. Reuters' "The Great Debate."

Physicians Who Use EHRs Order More Imaging Tests, Study Finds

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that physicians who can access patients' previous imaging tests through electronic health records order tests 40% more often than doctors who use paper records. Some experts say the study raises questions about whether EHRs can curb medical costs, while others note that the survey data predate the meaningful use program. New York Times et al.

A Closer Look at the Stage 2 Meaningful Use Proposed Rule

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS' proposed rule for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program includes revisions to Stage 1 objectives and measures; new measures for Stage 2; expanded clinical quality measures and reporting options; and Medicare payment adjustments for health care providers who fail to demonstrate meaningful use.

Survey Finds Hospital CIOs Seeking Advice of Outside IT Consultants

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new survey finds that many hospital CIOs are turning to outside consultants for help with IT projects. The findings show that 46% of CIOs already spent or are planning to spend a "significant amount" of money to hire consultants. FierceHealthIT, healthsystemCIO survey.

CMS Seeks Feedback on Potential Clinical Quality Measures for Stage 2

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As it works to finalize clinical quality reporting measures for Stage 2 of the meaningful use incentive program, CMS is seeking public input on 125 potential clinical quality measures for physicians and 49 potential clinical quality measures for hospitals. Government Health IT.

Stage 2 Proposed Rule Emphasizes Encryption of Health Information

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A proposed rule for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program does not require the encryption of health data but calls for health care providers to assess the appropriateness of encryption when conducting security risk analyses. InformationWeek, Health Data Management.

ONC Releases Stage 2 Proposed Rule on Certification of EHRs

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released its proposed rule on the standards and criteria for the certification of electronic health records under Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. The proposed rule accompanies the recently released proposed rule on Stage 2 requirements for health care providers. Government Health IT et al.

From Volume to Value: Connectivity, Big Data and Sustainability Shape HIMSS12

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The health care market is seeing a shift from volume to value. At last week's Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society conference, three main themes emerged in the discussion of accountable care: connectivity, big data and sustainability.

Stakeholders React to Proposed Rule on Meaningful Use Stage 2

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Several health care industry groups have issued statements on the newly released proposed rule for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. Although many organizations praised the Stage 2 criteria, others cautioned that more work is needed. The Stage 2 rules will undergo a 60-day public comment period after their publication in the Federal Register. FierceHealthIT et al.

Mostashari: Stage 2 Rules Offer Flexibility, Push Interoperability

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's conference, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari said the proposed regulations for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program offer new flexibility and emphasize the importance of interoperability. Federal officials published a proposed rule on the Stage 2 requirements today. Health Data Management et al.

HIMSS12: No Big Surprises in Proposed Stage 2 Meaningful Use Rules

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Federal officials touted increased flexibility and fewer regulatory burdens when discussing the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use incentive program. Still, stakeholders say that meeting the Stage 2 requirements could be an uphill battle.

Proposed Stage 2 Regulations To Be Posted Online Tomorrow

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During a Wednesday session at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's 2012 conference in Las Vegas, federal officials offered a "sneak peek" of the proposed regulations for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. The rules were sent to the Office of the Federal Register today and are scheduled to be posted online tomorrow. Modern Healthcare et al.

Study Finds Physicians Slow To Transition to Electronic Records

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Deloitte Center for Health Solutions study finds that only 25% of physicians are on track to meet the requirements of the meaningful use program. Many survey respondents said upfront costs pose a major barrier to health IT adoption. National Journal, Deloitte release.

HIMSS12: Providers Report Meaningful Use Progress, New Barriers

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey released at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society conference shows significant progress in health IT adoption, as well as shifting barriers. Meanwhile, officials talked about the effect of the 2012 election and the importance of consumer engagement.

Hospital IT Executives Prioritizing Meaningful Use, ICD-10 Transition

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Respondents to the 2012 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's Leadership Survey said that demonstrating meaningful use and implementing ICD-10 code sets are two of their organizations' top IT priorities for the next two years. MedPage Today et al.

Report: Certain Hospitals More Likely To Achieve Meaningful Use Stage 1

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New HIMSS Analytics data show that certain types of hospitals are more likely to meet Stage 1 meaningful use requirements. The data show that hospitals with more than 500 beds are more ready than smaller hospitals to achieve Stage 1. Healthcare IT News, HIMSS Analytics release.

Many Providers Not Planning To Attest to Meaningful Use Stage 1

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey from IVANS finds that 42% of health care providers currently use electronic health records, but 39% do not plan to attest to Stage 1 of the meaningful use program. Respondents also said budget constraints are hindering their ability to share data. Hartford Courant et al.

Experts Discuss ICD-10 Delay, Stage 2 of Meaningful Use

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During the first day of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society's 2012 conference in Las Vegas, representatives of two health IT groups called for health care providers to continue working toward ICD-10 implementation. Also at the conference, experts discussed Stage 2 of the meaningful use program, health IT usability and other issues. Government Health IT et al.

Sebelius: Hospital EHR Adoption Nearly Doubled Over Two Years

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During an event in Kansas City, Missouri, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that the number of hospitals using electronic health records has more than doubled from 16% in 2009 to 35% in 2011. Sebelius also said new CMS data show that $3.12 billion in EHR incentive payments have been distributed through the meaningful use program. Kansas City Star, HHS release.

Hospital CIOs Report More EHR Use, Question Interoperability

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An Optum Institute survey of hospital CIOs finds that about 90% of hospitals have an electronic health record system in place, a significant increase from last year. However, the hospital CIOs cited interoperability as a significant barrier to meaningful use. Healthcare IT News, CMIO.

Five Things To Watch at the HIMSS12 Conference

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

With more than 300 education sessions and 1,123 exhibitors, there will be plenty to absorb at the annual Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society conference in Las Vegas.

HIMSS12 Conference Preps Health Care Industry for Stage 2 of Meaningful Use Program

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society Senior Director of Privacy and Security Lisa Gallagher, HIMSS Senior Director of Federal Affairs Tom Leary and IBM Chief Medical Scientist Martin Kohn spoke with iHealthBeat about what attendees can expect at this year's HIMSS conference in Las Vegas.

Waiting on Vendor Upgrades Top Barrier to Meeting Meaningful Use

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Preliminary reports from regional extension centers show that waiting for vendor technology upgrades and certification are among the biggest obstacles to meeting meaningful use. According to an analysis, vendor selection accounted for 34% of all reported meaningful use barriers. Government Health IT.

Massachusetts, New Jersey Dole Out Medicaid EHR Incentive Payments

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts has distributed $14.6 million in Medicaid meaningful use incentive payments to 15 hospitals and 12 health professionals, while New Jersey has distributed $40 million in Medicaid incentive payments to 30 hospitals and 40 physician practices. Becker's Hospital Review et al.

CSC Offers Lessons From Meaningful Use Stage 1, Predictions for Stage 2

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Computer Sciences Corporation report looks at lessons learned from Stage 1 of the meaningful use program. The report predicts that Stage 2 criteria will be more stringent, with Stage 1 menu options becoming requirements under Stage 2. Health Data Management, CSC report.

Meaningful Use in Year Two and Beyond: Informing the Efforts of RECs

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Given the many known obstacles, it's not surprising that participation in the first year of the meaningful use incentive program was relatively low. Regional extension centers must work to better disseminate information aimed at reducing physicians' uncertainty about electronic health record adoption.

Mostashari Says Health Information Exchange Will Ramp Up This Year

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During this week's Health IT Policy Committee meeting, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari said he expects the use of health data exchanges to grow in 2012, partly because health IT systems are becoming more interoperable. Healthcare IT News.

Beacon Communities Launch Texting Program To Assess Diabetes Risk

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Three Beacon communities are launching text messaging campaigns aimed at helping people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Participants will receive customized texts to help them manage and improve their health. Healthcare Informatics, Government Health IT.

Mostashari Outlines His Predictions for Health IT Developments in 2012

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a recent blog post, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari wrote that 2012 will be "the year in which health IT truly comes of age." He also predicted that at least 100,000 health care providers will receive meaningful use incentive payments by the end of this year. CMIO et al.

Health IT Proponent Chopra Steps Down as Country's First CTO

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, the White House announced that U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra is stepping down from his post. During his tenure, Chopra advocated for greater use of health IT and improved government transparency by making more data available online. Politico et al.

HHS Preparing Proposed Rules for Stage 2 of Meaningful Use

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

HHS has asked the Office of Management and Budget to review a proposed rule that will accompany the proposed rules for Stage 2 of the meaningful use program. OMB review typically is one of the last steps before an agency releases proposed or final rules. HHS previously indicated that it would release the Stage 2 proposed rules in January or February 2012. Health Data Management.

CMS Releases Guidance on Appeals Process for Meaningful Use Program

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS has unveiled guidance on the appeals process for health care providers who have failed to receive meaningful use incentive payments or are seeking to challenge their payment amount. The guidance outlines deadlines for submitting an appeal. Modern Healthcare, CMS guidance.

Q4 2011 Saw Surge of Federal Health IT Activity

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The last quarter of 2011 included numerous important federal health IT developments, including the Institute of Medicine's release of a report on patient safety and health IT and HHS' changes to the meaningful use incentive program timeline.

CMS Meaningful Use Hospital Payments Surged at End of 2011

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Payments to hospitals that demonstrated meaningful use of electronic health records more than doubled from October 2011 to December 2011, according to CMS. Combined payments to eligible health care providers increased by 99% during that period. Modern Healthcare.

Providers Rely on Small Number of Vendors for Incentive Pay

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Eligible professionals used electronic health record products from 217 different vendors to qualify for meaningful use incentive payments, but the top five vendors were used by 54% of providers, according to a database from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT. Seventy-five percent of hospitals used EHR products from the top five hospital EHR vendors. Modern Healthcare.

Meaningful Use Incentives Increasing, but Disparities Persist

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Recent analysis of CMS data shows that there is wide variation among states in terms of their progress in doling out Medicaid meaningful use incentive payments. Hospitals located in states that are lagging behind in getting their incentive programs up and running are at a disadvantage.

Mostashari Discusses Challenges Facing ONC, Data Privacy Protection

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an interview with HealthLeaders Media, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari discussed the challenges that the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT will face in 2012, as well as efforts to protect the privacy of patient data. HealthLeaders Media.

CMS: $2.5B in Meaningful Use Payments Distributed So Far

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During yesterday's Health IT Policy Committee meeting, CMS officials announced that $2.5 billion in meaningful use incentive payments had been distributed as of December 2011. National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari also announced the creation of a public use file with de-identified data from meaningful use attestations. Modern Healthcare, Government Health IT.

Mostashari Offers List of Top 10 Health IT Developments in 2011

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a "Health IT Buzz" blog post, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari describes the top 10 most notable health IT developments in 2011. His top developments include an increase in the number of certified electronic health record products and the expansion of health IT workforce training programs. Becker's Hospital Review, Health Data Management.

AHIMA Identifies Seven Health IT Initiatives To Monitor This Year

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The American Health Information Management Association has published a guide outlining the top seven health IT initiatives for health IT professionals to focus on in 2012, ranging from ICD-10 implementation to the development of accountable care organizations. CMIO et al.

HFMA Offers Guidance for Incentive Payment Accounting Practices

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Healthcare Financial Management Association has issued guidance on how hospitals can account for federal incentive payments for the meaningful use of electronic health records. The guidance outlines two accounting approaches. Modern Healthcare.

Nine Experts Weigh In on 2011 Health IT Progress, Hopes for 2012

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

We asked National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari and eight other health IT experts representing the provider, vendor and patient advocate community to discuss health IT progress and missed opportunities in 2011 and their hopes for 2012.

Blumenthal Discusses Short-Term, Long-Term Success of HITECH Act

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a two-part perspective piece for the New England Journal of Medicine, former National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal discussed metrics for evaluating the short- and long-term success of the meaningful use program. Becker's Hospital Review, MedPage Today.

A Meaningful 2012 for Health IT for Providers, Vendors and Consumers

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Although political uncertainties might affect health IT in the long term, in 2012 health care providers will continue to make progress in electronic health record adoption, and consumers and caregivers will demand more in terms of access to health information and health IT savvy physicians.

As Campaign Ramps Up, Gingrich Plays Down Support for Health IT

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Now that former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is a frontrunner in the GOP presidential race, he is distancing himself from his earlier support for health IT. Gingrich previously praised a provision of the federal economic stimulus package aimed at promoting health IT, but now he is working to appeal to Republican voters wary of big government initiatives. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Opinion: EHR Incentive Program Needs More Clarity, Accountability

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In an opinion piece, athenahealth CEO Jonathan Bush argues that greater transparency and accountability are necessary to ensure that the meaningful use incentive program improves patient outcomes and lowers health care costs. The Hill's "Congress Blog."

CMS Has Issued Nearly $2B in EHR Incentive Pay During Past Year

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a CMS official announced that Medicare and Medicaid each have handed out nearly $1 billion in incentive payments during the first year of the meaningful use program. The official said he expects to see an "influx" of attestations before March. Health Data Management.

What Percentage of U.S. Office-Based Doctors Use Electronic Health Record Systems?

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Nearly 57% of U.S. office-based physicians used any type of electronic health record system in 2011, compared with about 51% who used EHR systems in 2010, about 48% who used EHR systems in 2009 and 42% who used EHR systems in 2008, according to a CDC National Center for Health Statistics data brief.

Social Media Initiative Aims To Help Physicians Share Ideas on Health IT

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Association of Medical Directors of Information Systems recently teamed up with several other organizations to launch a social media initiative that aims to help health care providers exchange information about health IT and learn from their peers. Modern Healthcare, CMIO.

CMS Releases Online Tool To Help Guide Meaningful Use Efforts

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

CMS has launched a Web-based interactive resource to help eligible health care providers and professionals understand the Medicare portion of the meaningful use incentive payment program. The tool includes eligibility and registration information. Modern Physician.

Sebelius Announces Changes to Timeline for Meaningful Use

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Today, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius unveiled changes to the meaningful use program timeline. Under the changes, health care providers who meet Stage 1 requirements this year would not need to meet the Stage 2 standards until 2014. Meanwhile, a new CDC survey finds that electronic health record adoption among U.S. doctors has nearly doubled in the last two years. Modern Healthcare et al.