This week, the President announced a government push to computerize all of America’s medical records within the next five years. The measure is expected to cut rising U.S. health care costs and improve patient care.
To promote electronic health records (EHR), the federal government intends to help lower the one of the biggest barriers to adoption by providers—cost. Beginning in 2011, as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA), providers are eligible to receive federal funds to establish electronic systems. Federal incentive payments for doctors and hospitals to buy EHR systems could reach tens of billions over 10 years; however, the federal government also anticipates significant savings.
On July 13, HHS announced two regulations providers must meet to qualify for incentive payments from ARRA. The regulations define “meaningful use” requirements and identify technical capacities required by certified EHR technology. Providers must meet meaningful use requirements to qualify for incentive payments from ARRA. Federal officials tried to address provider complaints that the initial draft of the rule asked them to do too much, too fast. Under the rules, eligible professionals may receive as much as $44,000 under Medicare and $63,750 under Medicaid. If providers do not comply with the new rule by 2015, they may face cuts in Medicare payments.
Previously awarded ARRA grant funding has laid the foundation for EHR adoption. One such grant gives states funding to operate Regional Extension Centers (RECs). The primary purpose of RECs is to assist providers in achieving meaningful use of EHR. With federal funding available to jumpstart the use of EHR systems, RECs will play a pivotal role in establishing and elevating use of EHR within the states.
Federal funding, HHS guidance, and the establishment of RECs play an important role in the adoption of EHR among providers. States should also lay a policy foundation that reinforces the federal drive toward universal adoption of EHR.
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Op-Ed Columnist: Pass the Books. Hold the Oil.
1 minute ago
nice post!
ReplyDeleteA lot of people are afraid to go on with computerized medical records. Some thought that it would be easier for their records to be hacked. But with the government's power and software provider's, I believe that electronic health records are safer than paper records. We should not be afraid to try new things. We should always keep in mind that we would not be in this kind of world if our ancestors didn't try. I strongly support electronic medical records. These will help us fight back from recession and other economic crisis. Be part. Support.
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