Question

Discuss how in meaningful use criteria tie back to goals for the healthcare system, giving specific examples. In 1-2 pages in simple terms.

Answer 1

Meaningful use is defined by the use of certified EHR technology in a meaningful way ensuring that the certified EHR technology connects in a manner that provides for the electronic exchange of the health information to improve the quality of care.

The meaningful use criteria are driven by Health outcomes policy priorities and care goals.

Health outcome policy priorities include:

* Improve the quality, safety and efficiency of health care and reduce health disparities.

* Improve care coordination

*Improve public health

* Ensure proper privacy and security protections.

MEANINGFUL USE CRITERIA INCLUDE 10 CARE GOALS:

1. Provide access to comprehensive patient health data for patients health care team

2. Use evidence based order set and computerized physician order entry.

3. Apply clinical decision support at the point of care

4. Generate list of patients who need care and reach out to them

5. Report to patient registries for quality improvement

6. Provide patient and families with timely access to data, knowledge to manage their health.

7. Exchange meaningful clinical information among health care team members.

8. Communicate with public health care agencies

9. Ensure privacy and security protections for confidential information through operating policies

10. Provide transparency of data sharing to the patient

The program consists of 3 stages:

STAGE 1- setting the foundation by establishing requirements for the electronic capture of clinical data and providing patient with electronic copies of health information.

STAGE 2- focuses on advancing clinical processes amd encourage continuous quality improvement at the point of care.

STAGE 3- focus on using CEHRT to improve health outcomes.