Meaningful Use refers to a set of criteria that prove the "meaningful use" of electronic health record systems by hospitals and eligible professionals. Incentive Programs established by the federal government's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) either reward or penalize hospitals and providers for their use of electronic health record systems.
Hospitals and eligible providers who can demonstrate they have installed Certified EHR Technology (CEHRT), and are using the technology in "meaningful" ways, can avoid penalties.
If not qualified as a meaningful user by 2015, Medicare payments to the hospital/provider will be reduced.
See the latest MU News from CMS
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a notice of proposed rulemaking1 (NPRM) that significantly modifies the EHR Incentive Programs (aka meaningful use [MU]) requirements for 2015 through 2017.
The proposal aims to simplify program requirements, reduce reporting burdens, and align with the Stage 3 proposals. CMS followed through with their earlier promise to reduce the length of the 2015 reporting period and align all providers to report on a calendar year (CY).
In addition, they responded to stakeholder feedback with a surprise to relax some Stage 2 requirements that were generally difficult to meet. However, not all components of the NPRM are welcome news for providers.
- summarizes the proposed modifications;
- gives present analysis on the rule’s key takeaways;
- provides suggestions and action items for how to approach MU in 2015; and
- includes several appendices with helpful reference guides.
Meaningful Use Efforts at UMMS: