White Paper: Understanding The 'Meaningful Use' Regulations

By Elizabeth W. Woodcock, MBA, FACMPE, CPC

This white paper informs the reader about the federal government's final proposed criteria for "meaningful use" of electronic health records (EHR) systems in order to qualify for Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement bonuses starting in 2011. Focusing exclusively on how the proposed criteria apply to eligible professionals, including physicians, this paper also provides physicians and practice executives with a framework for understanding the goals of the EHR incentive program and preparing to meet its objectives.