CMS Intends To Modify EHR "Meaningful Use" Program Requirements

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced its intent to engage in rulemaking to update the Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs (commonly referred to as the Meaningful Use Program) beginning in 2015. CMS expects to publish a new rule this spring to respond to provider concerns about software implementation, information exchange readiness, and the 2015 reporting requirements. CMS is considering proposals to:

1. Realign hospital EHR reporting periods to the calendar year to allow eligible hospitals more time to incorporate 2014 Edition software to their workflows, and to better align with other CMS quality programs;
2. Modify aspects of the Meaningful Use Program to match long-term goals of the program, reduce complexity, and lessen providers' reporting burdens; and