HIMSS Publishes Its Definitions of 'Meaningful Use'

CHICAGO (April 27, 2009) - On Monday, April 27, HIMSS published its definitions of ‘meaningful use of certified EHR technologies,’ as outlined in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). HIMSS sent a cover letter, plus two definitions: 1) meaningful users of certified EHR technologies and 2) meaningful use for hospitals, to the National Coordinator of Health IT and the Acting CMS Commissioner, within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

ARRA calls for multiple years of Medicare incentive payments to hospitals and physicians who meet the requirements of “meaningful use of certified EHR technology” (an electronic health record). To be eligible for the incentive payments, hospitals and physicians must use the technology in a meaningful manner; to exchange electronic health information to improve the quality of care; and, submit clinical quality measures – and other measures – as selected by the Secretary of HHS. Further, hospitals and physicians must meet the definition within a specified time frame, which as described in ARRA, must be made increasingly stringent over time by the Secretary.

Read the full article HERE>

Another great show by HIMSS

HIMSS in Chicago was another great show featuring some of the best the healthcare informatics industry has to offer. While the attendance appeared to be down from last year, it was evident that health care facilities had sent their best people.

The weather was "classic" Chicago, offering plenty of wind and a generous portion of cold. The walk to food venues throughout Chicago proved to be quite a task if unprepared.

The major dissappointment was in the sessions about the economic stimulus package. Because the stimulus is still somewhat shrouded by details that have yet to be outlined, there were no concrete details about what to expect.

We really enjoyed demonstrating our network lock which is now available in our charting stations, computing stations and medication boxes. For many, the show really revealed all the great features that this security system has to offer. If you missed the demo, look at the video on our website OR wait a few weeks until the lock system video is completed. (I'll post specifically about the lock video as soon as its done.)

Overall, HIMSS09 was a great success and we look forward to exhibiting again at HIMSS10 in Atlanta, GA.

A special thanks to Colin at CMK Development for the use of one of his luxury condo's in downtown Chicago. It was amazing!

Get the EMR wheels moving! Site pools resources.

I will be interesting to see how the HITECH Act effects the level of competition in the EMR field. With HIMSS09 around the corner I have to wonder what will be the tactics used to lure potential customers to the massive array of EMR products.

Are you looking for an EMR solution? To help get you started check out EMRconsultant.com. The site lists over 324 suppliers of EMR/EHR products. The site has reviews and links to video and downloadable demos.

One you have your EMR software selected make sure to have your hardware figured out. Where will you use it? Hallway, patient room on a mobile cart? We have wall mounted arms & cabinets plus mobile computing carts and tablet solutions. We have products across the spectrum of paper and electronic charting. Give us a call if you need help figuring out a solution. 888-760-8159

Make it a great day!