myEMRchoice.com

US Recession? Healthcare IT is not participating

2010-06-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

Healthcare IT stocks are up and the HITECH Act is providing billions for EMR and healthcare IT. Health Information Exchanges (HIE) and Regional Extension Centers are mushrooming. If the US is in a recession, then the healthcate IT vertical market ain't participating.

The marketplace for Electronic Health Records and its sequel, consumer Personal Health Records (PHR) is a gathering storm, ready to engulf 310 million patient/consumers and their healthcare providers and staff. Throw in EDI and insurance payers, and you have one wildly interdependent healthcare delivery system. Healthcare IT service providers that offer smooth transition to EMR will be seen as trusted advisors.

And don't forget about Personal Health Records. Each patient will have access to their PHR "anywhere, anytime, on demand". Patient control and instant collaboration from many physicians can hasten and heal...fast and more efficiently.

Stay tuned.

HITECH Overview and the Requirement of Doctors to use Electronic Medical Records

2010-06-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has been passed. Physicians are required to move from paper based medical charts to computerization. Sorry, docs.

The cost of incentives is estimated to be $19 billion in increased Medicare and Medicaid payments. Probably a moving target.

The Act includes a portion known as HITECH (Healthcare Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health to encourage electronic medical records (EMR). The incentive portion starts in 2011: a physician who is a "meaningful user" of EMR is eligible to receive additional payments under the Medicare program that can extend over five years. The penalty portion starts in 2015, when physicians who are not meaningful EHR users will begin to see declines in their Medicare payments. The incentive payment schedule is as follows for encouraging EMR adoption:

2011 $18,000
2012 $12,000
2013 $ 8,000
2014 $ 4,000
2015 $ 2,000

The loger you wait, the more you lose out. Thinking of retiring or selling your practice, missing out on the whole need to participate in the HITECH program and the change to EMR? Consider this: buy a EMR in 2011 and have a fully implemented EMR in place, adding 20% to your sell price!

Under the penalty provisions, physicians who are not meaningful EHR users in 2015 will see a 1% reduction in their fee schedule amount. The reduction increases to 2% in 2016, and 3% in 2017 and each subsequent year.

As for “meaningful use”, this simply means that the EMR system must be certified by the CCHIT organization or a qualified private validation firm. The EMR must pass inspection, like your care to be recognized. EMR vendors have been paying about $30,000 for the stamp of approval. That’s an expensive stamp.

There are HUNDREDS of EMR systems and resellers to chose from. Expect phone calls.

If HHS finds that by 2017, the proportion of physicians who are meaningful EHR users is less than 75%, HHS may continue to scale back payments by 1% a year (but may not reduce payments below 95%). There will be some exceptions based on socioeconomic and geographical considerations.

To be a "meaningful EHR user", the physician must satisfy three criteria: e-Prescribing, exchanging information and sending measured/requested data to HHS.

HHS will designate the way in which a physician is recognized as a meaningful user (through attestation, submission of claims with codes indicating that a patient encounter was documented using certified EHR technology, survey responses, submission of quality reports, or other means).

The Act also authorizes state Medicaid programs to provide additional payments to physicians, at least 30% of whose patient volume is services to Medicaid beneficiaries.

In addition to HITECH, $2 billion is available as to ONCHIT Coordinator, Dr. David Blumenthal for implementation of the programs, including grants to states to establish loan programs for physicians seeking to acquire certified EHR systems., Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) and Regional Extension Centers (RECs).

Keep checking back with the gang at MyEMRchoice. The HITECH Act has all the markings of a policy that can change quicker than the weather in Texas.

Everything You Need to Know About EMR Adoption in 1 Minute

2010-06-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

A baseball player has his entire career summarized on a baseball card. We will attempt to do the same thing here for Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Personal Health Records (PHR).

The HITECH Act calls for physicians to move from paper medical charts to EMR by 2014. Financial incentives and data management are at keys of this initiative, not the desire of most doctors. EMR is not a question of if or when.

EMR system adoption is a process, not just a product. EMR vendors once numbered in the hundreds. Massive consolidation is occuring. A EMR must show "meaningful use" as defined by CCHIT which itself may be replaced with private certification organizations.

Technology: Medical practices will have the opportunity to select either a traditional client/server EMR configuration, a web based model (ASP or SaaS) or a downloadable application streamed right to a tablet PC or iPad type device. OCR and voice features can offer patient convenience and physician efficiencies.

Estimation of the cost for a EMR system is just that-an estimate. Pricing varies wider and more often than the weather in Texas.

Successful EMR adoption and its use consists of scanning your current paper records, EMR selection and choices, compliance with time lines, secured financing, patient-physician communication portals and offering patients access to their complete Personal Health Records.

(vist the Glossar at My EMR Choice for definitions)

Next for your Mobil device: Your own Personal Health Record

2010-05-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

So what's the next hot app for your mobile device? The answer: Your complete Personal Health Record, or PHR. And this information will be secure and available by you "Anytime, Anywhere and On-Demand".

Doctors must move your medical records from paper to Electronic Medical Records (EMR) by law and in a short timeframe. This EMR will serve to populate your PHR data.

We know that currently a PHR application sounds about exciting as watching paint dry. PHR does not have the same appeal as many of the apps available today. But really, what is more important than the life application that is your medical record? Consider:

PHR will allow for faster, accurate communication between you and your doctor. The free flow of information will benefit patients, physicians and caretakers of those with conditions. In addition, forget the redundant paperwork that accompanies every visit to a new physician. Just hand back the paperwork and hand over your PHR. Done and done. Now THAT's consumer satisfaction.

Who among us much cared about cell phones and ATM cards until they were available, but what would you do without them today?

We would like to hear your thoughts on PHR. Please send comments through http://www.myEMRchoice.com

Why Shop for Electronic Medical Records in 2010?

2010-04-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

Why should you shop for and evaluate EMR systems in 2010?

1. EMR Software Stimulus. Up to $44,000+ in Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement payments for adopting a "meaningfull use" a certified electronic medical records software system by 2014. Meaningful use is a certification by CCHIT, with an option to have a private certification.

2. Electronic Prescribing (eRx). With bonuses of 2% on allowable Medicare Part B charges in 2009 and 2010 and penalties beginning in 2012, your practice will save by adopting an EMR with electronic prescribing.

3.EMR Software Tax Deductions. The US tax code Section 179 deduction. This means that the write-off amount is approx $250,000 with a bonus 50% depreciation.

4. Benefits of Electronic Medical Records. The HITECH incentives, substantially reduced initial capital expense with a Off-Premise(web-based) EMR system and the efficiency cost savings are acheivable.

5. Retiring by 2014? Then get a low cost EMR system in place NOW and add 10% to your practice sale price by offering a fully computerized EMR system and trained staff.

Will Patient PHR be populated by EMR?

2010-04-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

As Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Electronic Health Records (EHR) become more accepted and widely used by physicians to replace paper charts, the rise of Personal Health Records (PHR) is the next hot "killer app".

Patient PHR, soon to be available "Anytime, Anywhere, On Demand" will be best served if the data contained is being provided by a physicians EMR system. This will keep consistent, up to date data for docs and pconsumers alike. Other benefits of current PHR includes the ability for patients and doctors to have a meaningful exchange of information. That is, some things should be noted in a Medical Record that are not, and some information in a patients record is note disclosed to the patient.

In addition, patients will be able to monitor the medication and conditions of loved ones who need assistence. Insurance companies can have a true reading of a consumer to provide the best coverage. Any all of that redundant paperwork for new enrollments will go away.

Initially, the basic data contained in a patients PHR include Conditions, Allergies, Medications, Procedures, Immunizations and Test results.

EMR and PHR must share six data points:

2010-04-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Regardless of the components called for in "meaningful use" Electronic Health Records #EHR, a paperless charting system should seamlessly update, import and export patient-friendly Personal Health Record data, including:

Condition
Allergies
Medications
Procedures
Immunizations
Test Results

These 6 datasets should be readily available to the patient/doctor "anywhere, anytime, on-demand".

Consumers ping Facebook and Twitter all day long, but what is more important than your own Personal Health Record information?

Will the iPad Storm to the Front of the EMR Crowd?

2010-04-02T06:34:00.000-07:00

The long awaited and hyped availability of the Apple's iPad is sure to raise eyebrows of those moving from paper based to of Electronic Medical Records. Although it does not run on a open system, the iPad may have doctors considering giving up comfort for style.

Ideally, a EMR solution served up on a ASP model and being delivered to the physician on the slick iPad device seems like one sexy solution. But those who elect this solution to EMR adoption may have to consider if they want to be all in with team Apple. Consider:

Currently, the EMR system has to run quickly on Apple's proprietary OS and wireless carrier. What if a EMR system is designed on a not-so-Apple-user friendly platrorm? Many EMR systems offer Flash generated video clips and links for information and education. Flash will not play ball with Apple. 75% of all web videos use flash. Also, your options for web browsers boils down to one: Safari.

What if Dr. iPad decides to migrate to non-Apple options in the future? You can't take your locally stored information with you. And, developing new EMR applications to run on your new iPad will be as simple as...breaking into Fort Knox.

Will the iPad generate enough curb appeal to convince docs to go all in with the new device? Or will physicians be charmed by a platfrom that does not play well with others? The answer at this writing seems to be a crystal clear 50-50.

Diabetes, Healthcare Reform and Electronic Medical Records

2010-03-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

The vote for US healthcare reform has created thousands of visits to My EMR Choice.com. When reviewing the comments and concerns of our visitors, we see a consistent theme: Does the healthcare overhaul seek fortune, fame or truth?

Every policy regarding healthcare (or any) changes requires representation to deliver on it's promise. Electronic Medical Records (EMR) can serve this purpose for healthcare in its intended form.

The healthcare measure, ARRA and the HITECH Act looks like a solution in search or a strategy.

Though well intentioned, the healthcare reform bill still faces many obstacles and constitutional challenges.

We have seen many deliberations and heard many justifications on healthcare from elected and appointed officials. Perhaps the most significant and realistic concerns will be heard from the 300 million Americans and one million physicians whos medical health records will soon be available and under scrutiny.

http://www.myemrchoice.com/

MyEMRChoice.com Delivers Vision for Complete EMR/PHR Adoption

2010-03-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

As required by the HITECH Act, all physicians in the US will be moving from paper based to Electronic Medical Records Systems by 2014. Soon, patient will be asking for "anytime, anywhere" access to their Personal Health Records (PHR).

MyEMRChoice.com has identified and assembled a model for this initiative including interoperability among EMR vendors, physicians, patients, pharma companies, billing services, HW and patient Personal Health Records.

The model includes "signature advantages" designed to offer patients savings on prescriptions while decreasing costs for Health Information Technology providers delivered on proven, cutting edge mobile delivery technologies.

List of the "Meaningful Use EMR" Requirements

2010-03-08T12:17:00.000-08:00

The following is a overview of how a Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system must demonstrate "meaningful use". The components of the successful EMR include:

1. Computerized Physician Order Enrty (CPOE)
2. Drug-Drug, Drug-Allergy, Drug Formulary Checks
3. Maintain Up to date Problem List
4. Generate & Transmit e-Prescriptions
5. Maintain Active Medication and Allergy List
6. Record Patient Demographica
7. Record and Chart patient Vital Signs
8. Document Smoking Status
9. Record Clinical Lab Test Results
10. List Patient Specific Conditions
11. List Ambulatory Quality Measures to CMS/HHS
12. Pateint Reminders
13. Clinical Decision Support Rules
14. Patient Insurance Eligibility via electronic connectivity
15. e-Rx (meds filed electronically)
16. Patient Access to Personal Health Records (PHR, 3 parts)
17. Electronic Data Exchange
18. Medical Reconciliation
19. Summary of Care per care & referal
20. Immunization Registration
21. Show that data is secured
22. Provide reports on syndromic surveillance

For a complete list of requirments, definitions and components, visit http://www.myemrchoice.com/

My EMR Choice.com delivers on vision for complete HIT interoperability, patient savings

2010-02-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

My EMR Choice.com has researched and assembled a model for complete EMR adoption which provides total interoperability and real time patient medical information.

Working with providers of EMR, EHR, PHR, scanning services, phara, financing and billing, the "anywhere, anytime" access to this connectivity can be delivered on a proven, cutting edge mobile technology.

Health Information Technology vendors and Pharmas will realize increased sales and decreased costs, while patient can benefit from savings on prescriptions and the benefits off having access to their medical information.

How Long Will Electronic Medical Records be Fashionable?

2010-02-22T08:02:00.000-08:00

Will the push for Electronic Medical Records be the 2010 version of the global warming hysteria of just 3 years ago?

When Congress passed the Stimulus package in 2009 ($787 Billion, $20 Billion and counting for Health Information Technology), an aggressive plan was enacted to move physicians from paper to computerized medicine. Town Hall meetings served as convenient cover for policymakers to claim that patients and physicians (you remember then, don’t you?) were consulted for advise on healthcare initiatives.

US Healthcare costs $2.5 TRILLION in the United States. That’s about 18% of the total GDP as told us by attending such town hall meetings. Estimates hold that 20% of this cost is waste related to inefficiencies and redundancy. Perhaps the cost of healthcare would not be marketed as so objectionable if the other 82% of the GDP was stripped of its compounding, confusing and almost indescribable waste. I am already apologizing to my six year old for the fiscal mess that lies ahead for her generation.

As healthcare policymakers sought to control US medical data with Health Information Technology (HIT) the scope of the healthcare reform project and its many moving parts became evident. Enter, Regional Health Information Exchanges (HIE). HIE’s serve as a smaller, controlled environments for completing HIT initiatives and pinpoint trends. Does this sound familiar? Consider:

In 2007, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger cited the need to address global warming proclaiming “We cannot wait for the US government to to get its act together on the environment”. Formed was the Western Climate Initiative coalition to beat the Fed to the punch. Since this project has fallen off the front pages, many business members have decided to focus on…business. Now, just substitute the word “healthcare” for “environment” and history repeats itself.

Corporations and business define strategies then estimate timelines. HIT policy seems to have decided to flip that around. Anyone care to predict an outcome? The HIT intentions are admirable and run by good people. But to do something for the sake of “doing something” is rarely advisable. It is wise to anticipate rather than react whenever possible.

Not too long ago, US healthcare, the finest in the world, was made up of the three P’s: patients, physicians and payers. Sadly, this has been replaced by another group of P’s, policymakers, pundits and product pushers.

"Super" EMR's to Address Disease Management?

2010-02-10T10:30:00.000-08:00

As the adoption of Electronic Medical Records heats up, it is good advise to consider that EMR and EHR adoption is a process, not a simple software product. "Meaningful Use" and its criteria is a evolving work in progress. EMR providers and physician users should anticipate, not merely react to future EMR functionality.

Three applications come to mind that a EMR system should offer or have planned: Personal Health Records (PHR), Disease Management and Preventative care. Throw in "enhanced e-Prescribing" functionality so the drug companies can keep patients compliant and refilling those meds!

Personal Health Records will be desired by patients so that we can all access our PHR "Anywhere, Anytime, On Demand".

Disease Management (DM) is a module which serves to identify at risk patients, regular reporting of their conditions and changes, patient education/follow up and incentives for compliance and adhering to reporting DM criteria.

CMS Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

2010-01-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

The CMS Notice of Proposed Rulemaking related to Electronic Medical Records:

It used to be that the "3 P's" of healthcare delivery was made up of Patients, Providers and Payers. This trinity seems to have been replaced by Policy makers, Pundits and Product pushers.

Everything to Register for EMR, HITECH and ARRA

2010-01-18T14:41:00.001-08:00

My EMR Choice.com announces its new Physician Assistance Program which will allow medical groups achieve, maintain and comply with current and future requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, HITECH, and the successful shift from paper based medical Records to Electronic Medical Records.

For more information on these and more all encompassing new services, visit http://www.myemrchoice.com/.

Making the Countdown to EMR Compliance Easy

2010-01-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

So how will the EMR adoption timelines benefit you? To summarize:

The HITECH Act and enacting of "meaningful use" Electronic Medical Records (EMR) calls for physicians to install and become proficient in using a EMR system by 2014, with financial incentives in place to encourage adoption even sooner. The following is an outline for achieving a maximum dollar figure and minimal time expenditure, brought to you by MyEMRChoice.com:

1. January, 2010: Begin EMR selection criteria for a system that fits your needs. MyEMRChoice.com has initiated this step for thousands of visitors to our free site.

2. Spring 2010: See EMR demonstrations and select an EMR System. Plan for install/training in Summer 2010.

3. Fall 2010: Go-live and have staff become proficient in demonstration "meaningful use" of the EMR system.

4. 2011: Stage 1. Receive funds ( $18,000) for EMR compliance and meaningful use.

5. 2012: Receive funds ($12,000) for EMR compliance and meaningful use.

6. 2013: Stage 2: Receive funds ($ 8,000) for EMR compliance and meaningful use.

7. 2014: Receive funds ($ 4,000) for EMR compliance and meaningful use.

8. 2015: Stage 3: Receive funds ($ 2,000) for EMR compliance and meaningful use.

Follow the timeframe above to receive the full $44,000 for EMR compliance and adoption. For each year that you postpone using a EMR system, you will forefit that and the previous years' incentive funds.

With over 300 EMR systems and vendors to choose from, MyEMRChoice.com assists physicians in making a informed, quick and accurate choice of a Electronic Medical Record system.

National Coordinator for HIT Blumenthal at College of Physicians, Philadephia

2009-11-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

(November 10, 2009) Dr. David Blumenthal, National Coordinator for US Health Information Technology, spoke in Philadelphia at the College of Physicians about issues related to Electronic Medical Record (EMR) adoption and "Meaningful Use" definitions and time frames.

Dr. Blumentahl's presentation elaborated on the three basic components of Meaningful Use that currently is comprised of ePrescribing, Information Exchange and Reporting Quality Data.

Most notable is the that Meaningful Use will continue to be evolutionary. By year end 2009, a revised definition should be in place followed by a 60 day comment period as well as a time for reconsiderations of language.

Blumenthal encouraged the need for comments and wisdom from the public in order to frame the ideas around EMR adoption. This extends to Personal Health Records (PHR) as a possible component of EMR.

"Doctors EMR Quarterly" Newsletter Announced

2009-10-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

MyEMRChoice.com Announces New, Doctor Friendly EMR Resource

myemrchoice.com announced today that it will launch a quarterly online newsletter named Doctors EMR Quarterly. The publication will provide factual information surrounding Electronic Medical Record (EMR) adoption by physicians, also known as Electronic Health Records (EHR).

The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 (ARRA) calls for every US physician to migrate from paper based medical records to EHR by 2014. Currently, incentives are in place to urge doctors towards implementing an EMR system. To qualify for funding from the ARRA, the EMR choice made by a physician must show “meaningful use” as defined by the Certification Committee for Health Information Technology (CCHIT). A final definition of “meaningful use” EMR is due out in 2010, pushed back from Q3 2009. Such information is an example of information that the Doctor’s EMR Quarterly will provide.

“The move from a paper based medical record to EMR presents many challenges to physicians, not only technical” said Douglas Wallace, Executive V.P. of Business Development for MyEMRChoice.com. “This move from paper to electronic requires an entire rewrite of the approach to documenting the doctor-patient encounter. Changing years’ worth of habits and standard operating procedures for the medical staff may frustrate the whole process of implementation” says Mr. Wallace. “In addition, there is a lot of misinformation and confusion related to time frames, incentives, penalties and expectations of what an EMR does for the doctor, patient and government entities”, continued Wallace.

The Doctors EMR Quarterly will provide updates on EMR initiatives from CCHIT, Health and Human Services (HHS), the HITECH Act, P4P and the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC). Include are initiatives such as Physician Quality Reporting Initiatives (PQRI), “meaningful use EHR”, Health Information Exchanges (HIE) and other timely information. Also included will be clarification on product benefits/drawbacks, such as web based ASP and stand alone client/server EMR applications.

“Doctors want to focus on delivering the highest level of patient care possible, not be bogged down by moving timelines, requirements and making their choice from one of 300 EMR vendors” said Wallace. “Doctor’s EMR Quarterly will quickly focus on facts, report extensions, and cut through the misperceptions associated with regulatory EHR initiatives. All of the moving parts to EMR adoption are overwhelming. We’re here to give these physicians a break”, said Mr. Wallace.

The Doctors EMR Quarterly will appear free on the company’s website, http://www.myemrchoice.com/, or by request from physicians and medical organizations.

myemrchoice.com connects physician to solid, proven healthcare technology solutions. Their mission is to match physicians with EMR/EHR and Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) delivery solutions with minimal disruption to providing patient care. To find out how myemrchoice.com has helped match physicians and successful solutions, visit http://www.myemrchoice.com/.

What is "Meaningful Use" EMR, and Who Qualifies?

2009-10-05T16:44:00.000-07:00

What is a “Meaningful Use” Electronic Medical/Health Record (EMR/EHR) and Who Qualifies for Funding of this Health Information Technology?
Overview:

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) has enabled the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide financial incentives for eligible provider professionals and hospitals who adopt “meaningful use” Electronic Health/Medical Record (EHR/EMR) technology. Incentive payments begin in 2011 and gradually decrease through 2014. Starting in 2015, providers are expected to have adopted and be actively utilizing a certified EHR in compliance with the “meaningful use” definition or they will be subject to penalties.

The focus on meaningful use EMR is a recognition that better health care does not come solely from the adoption of technology itself but through the exchange and use of health information to best inform clinical decisions at the point of care.

So who’s an “Eligible Provider Professional”?

"Eligible Provider Professional" is broken out in the following ways:

Medicare (CMS):
A physician as defined in section 1861(r) of the Social Security Act,which includes the following five types of professionals:
Doctor of medicine or osteopathy
Doctor of dental surgery or medicine
Doctor of podiatric medicine
Doctor of optometry
Chiropractor

…and for Medicaid:
Physicians, Dentists, Certified nurse-midwives, Nurse practitioners

Physician assistants (P.A.’s) who are practicing in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) or Community Health Centers (330’s) that incorporate by a physician assistant.

“Meaningful Use” Defined:

A final definition of “Meaningful Use” functionality for EMR/EHR is due out in Spring 2011, followed by a 60-day period for public comment and amendments.

EMR "Power Ranking"

2009-09-29T06:54:00.001-07:00

MyEMRchoice.com to Collect, Share Electronic Medical Record Data

MyEMRchoice.com, llc. an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Sales and Business Development Service based in Doylestown, PA has outlined an ambitious initiative for collecting and sharing data on Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Electronic Health Records (EHR) to be shared with physicians and healthcare organizations.

Switching from paper based records to Electronic Health Records is a key component to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), as well as the program for Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH). The Federal Government and ARRA stimulus funding has called for adoption of Electronic Health Records by 2014, with financial incentives to quicken adoption of EMRs and penalties for physicians that hesitate or do not comply.

“A vision for healthcare automation has been put into motion, but there are a lot of blurred lines and misinformation”, says Douglas Wallace, Executive V.P., EMR Business Development. “In addition to EMR adoption timeframes, financial incentives and ‘meaningful use’ requirements, making a choice between hundreds of EMR vendors and dealers is simply overwhelming. We hear the confusion and frustration each day in our conversations with visitors to http://www.myemrchoice.com/”, says Wallace.

MyEMRchoice.com will continue to collect information from “early adopters” of EMR systems to provide insight to EMR systems and expectation levels. Criteria will include such factors as user satisfaction, ease of use, support, Return on Investment (ROI) and timely compliance with regulatory functions such as CCHIT (Certification Committee on Health Information Technology) and PQRI (Physicians Quality Reporting Initiative).

The new initiative, named the “EMR Power Ranking”, aims to provide EMR information free from misconception, entrenched relationships and “pay to rank” policies. “The bottom line to the EMR Power Ranking is getting an answer to the question ‘are you happy with your EMR or not, and why?”, says Wallace.

MyEMRchoice.com connects physicians to healthcare technology solutions and assists healthcare providers in fulfilling their vision for outstanding patient care. To learn more about how MyEMRchoice.com can assist your practice, visit www.MyEMRchoice.com.

Don’t Worry…‘Meaningful Use” EMR Criteria will be Basic

2009-09-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Don’t Worry…"Meaningful Use” EMR Criteria will be Basic

By Doug Wallace, Executive VP, Business Development Solutions, MyEMRChoice.com

The Office of the National Institute for Healthcare Information Technology plans to implement a basic level of initial functionality for ”meaningful use” of Electronic Health Records systems to determine who will receive Medicare and Medicaid incentives under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA 2009). The “meaningful use” criteria will then be refined in the 2013-2015 timeframe.

Basically, an EMR system will demonstrate “meaningful use” if the EMR system is able to send and receive data with CMS. The big thing for adopting EMR by 2011 is that you actually purchase this equipment and start using it.A final definition on “meaningful use” is not expected until Spring 2010.

For more, visit www.MyEMRChoice.com. "All we do for you is...Everything."

Electronic Health Records: Considerations Large and Small

2009-09-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

Electronic Health Records: Considerations Large and Small

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is pushing for adoption of Electronic Medical Records (EMR)/Electronic Health Records (EHR) for every physician by 2014. The sooner a doctor complies, the more financial incentive she will receive.

Unfortunately for physicians, a time frame for EMR is established, with little else to go on.
There are hundreds of EMR systems to select from, and a doctor can expect a call from most of these software vendors. This puts the “time saving” benefit of EMR immediately into question.
And just what is the EMR to do? To qualify for funds, an EMR system must show “meaningful use”. The final definition of “meaningful use” will not be firmed up until Spring-Summer 2010.
Other considerations which can cause apprehension include the complete overhaul of a paper based workflow, cost, multiple EMR evaluations, and the selection of a web based or Client Server platform. Also, be sure to fully understand how your existing patient data will be converted into the EMR system.

The list continues. In making a choice of EMR systems, one must consider the longevity of the EMR vendor, provisions related to switching from ICD-9 to ICD-10 and guarantees for upgrades to remain compliant. Also looming on the horizon are Personal Health Records (PHR), smart phone applications, and open source EMR initiatives. And by the way…is now the time to consider outsourcing of your billing operations? Several Revenue Cycle Management services can provide an approved EMR at a low cost in exchange for your business.

Creating On-line patient portals for scheduling, education, registration, reminders and communications should be considered prior to making a choice of an EMR system. A patient/practice portal can deliver immediate gratification and encourage all staff members as to the benefit of the new EMR technology. Electronic Prescriptions are a must. And, do not overlook the need to slowly scan and convert your existing paper charts into a digital format.
And, for those physicians that are retiring prior to the 2014 deadline for EMR compliance consider this: Selection of an EMR can serve to increase the value of your practice, maintain and gain more patients, provide value of a fully trained staff and allow you to be eligible for the current maximum financial incentives.

More and more, we are hearing from patients that want the convenience provided by Electronic Health Records. Already, EMR vendors are providing “on-demand” access to patient records on-line or through a portable thumb drive and other small devices. In the words of more than one patient, ‘If a doctor does not offer patients the convenience of an EMR, I will go to one who does”.

Docs, EMR Vendors benefit from Legislative Action

2009-09-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

Physicians and Electronic Medical Record Vendors to Benefit from H.R. 3014
Measure will provide funding under the Small Business Act

(Doylestown, PA) The push for adoption of Electronic Medical and Health Records (EMR/EHR) was assisted on June 24, 2009 by the drafting of House Resolution 3014 which will “provide loan guarantees for the acquisition of health information technology by eligible professionals in solo and small group practices”.
The measure should serve to overcome a consistently cited barrier to adoption of EMR by doctors…cost.
Sponsored by Congresswoman Kathleen Dahlkemper and co-sponsored by seven other members of the House of Representatives, the bill seeks to amend the Small Business Act to allow loan guarantees so eligible professionals in solo and small group practices can purchase health IT such as Electronic Medical Records (EMR) that demonstrates "meaningful use." A final definition of “meaningful use” is due by spring 2010, developed by the Certification Committee for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT).
“The two major factors causing doctors apprehension to adopting EMR are cost and the disruption of moving from established paper based record keeping to an electronic format. H.R. 3014 can well serve to ease the burden of the financial portion, and we fully urge physicians, patients and EMR vendors to call on their Representatives to pass this legislation” said Doug Wallace, Executive V.P. of MyEMRChoice.com.
The full text of H.R. 3014, as well as its status and updates can be viewed by visiting http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-3014 or www.MyEMRChoice.com.
MyEMRChoice.com, llc connects physicians and technology solution providers through a in depth analysis of a medical practices needs, provides current information on issues facing the US healthcare system and monitors issues relevant to healthcare technology.

EMR Financial Aid by H.R. 3014

2009-09-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

Healthcare Information Technology and Electronic Medical Records (EMR), courtesy of House Resolution 3014

The US Congress, returning to Capitol Hill on Tuesday, September 8, will most certainly focus on the developing storm of healthcare related issues and its many moving parts. One particular piece of legislation that should get a quick pass, if there remains any business-sense on Capitol Hill.

H.R. 3014, introduced by Rep. Kathleen Dahlkemper (D-Pa.) and co-sponsored by seven Democratic members of the House of Representatives, seeks to amend the Small Business Act to allow loan guarantees so eligible professionals in solo and small group practices can purchase health IT such as ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS (EMR) that demonstrates "meaningful use." A final definition of “meaningful use” is due by Spring 2010, developed by the Certification Committee for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT).
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) has earmarked $18 billion of the adoption of Electronic Medical Records by physicians by 2014. Estimates hold that nearly 25% of the $2.4 billion US healthcare system is wasted through inefficiencies caused by current paper-based medical record keeping.
If passed, the Small Business Health Information Technology Financing Act, which calls for loans of up to $350,000 for solo practitioners and $2 million for small group practices, would be overseen by the Small Business Administration. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) supports the bill, which was referred to the House Committee on Small Business. Representative Dahlkemper chairs the Subcommittee on Regulations and Healthcare.
H.R. 3014 is a measure that offers financial leverage for small practices to offset upfront costs for EMR hardware and software, training, office reengineering and workflow disruption. It's an easy bill for the House, Senate and President Obama to get behind.
The two major factors causing doctors apprehension to adopting EMR are cost and the disruption of moving from established paper based record keeping to an electronic format.
To qualify for “meaningful use” of health IT, providers' IT systems need to be doing data collection in 2011. Reimbursement bonuses under the ARRA of 2009 begin in 2011, as well. Doctors are encouraged to adopt EMR now, and the single practitioners and small practice physicians need the immediate help that H.R. 3014 can provide.

EMR and Physicians: Where are we?

2009-08-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

Regarding a physician adopting Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Electronic Health Records (EHR), set your GPS to "The middle of no where" and "Where the hell am I? Do not expect an answer until Spring 2010. The time to start educating oneself is NOW. FREE assistance can be found at www.MyEMRChoice.com

Need a Little Help with EMR?

2009-08-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

Don’t Know Much About Electronic Medical Records? Here’s a Little Help

Electronic Medical Records and the retirement of your old paper based patient charts. It’s not a matter if, just matter of when.

The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 (ARRA) devotes more than 30 pages to Healthcare Information Technology and the adoption of Electronic Medical/Electronic Health Records (EMR/EHR). Title XIII of the ARRA calls for all US medical physicians to adopt use of EMR by the year 2014. It calls for financial incentives to ease the financial burden of such an undertaking,

There are many schools of thought on EMR, it’s benefits, drawbacks. The safeguarding of a patient’s data and increased efficiency for the entire medical encounter (Registration, insurance verification, documentation of an exam, diagnosis, proper treatment plans, electronic order (lab tests, prescriptions, imaging) are some of the basic expectations of EMR systems.

Challenge 1: There are hundreds of EMR systems to make a choice from.
Challenge 2: The Entire medical staff must be convinced embrace and use the new EMR system.

Once these challenges have been faced and settled, here are a few tips on what to expect as you move from paper-based medical charts to a computerized EMR system:

Scan existing paper records. Slow and steady wins this race. Scan, convert and capture for current patient, the patients you do not expect to see for awhile can wait.

Electronic prescription ordering is next. Patients will appreciate the medications waiting for them at their pharmacy. Keep in mind that EMR, done properly, can provide a tremendous convenience to your patients, resulting in compliance and more patients. Make no mistake, soon patients (all 300+million of us) will be saying If my physician does not have an EMR system, I’ll go to a doctor who does”.

Next, you further automate the workflow of the office. Consider a website and online registration and scheduling for new and existing patients. Bye-bye, clipboard. As your phone stops ringing, but you are seeing more patients, signs of improved efficiency are sprouting. Also, start communicating a patient’s healthcare coverage from the insurance company to avoid billing “surprises”.

Doctors and Physicians, you come next. Electronically documenting your examination findings will protect your practice legally and help you to qualify for financial incentives for the “meaningful use” of a EMR system.

Every journey begins with a first step. Here’s wishing you success on the next big thing in keeping US medical care the best in the world.

Multiple Groups to certify EMR systems

2009-08-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

The federal Health IT Policy Committee agreed on recommendations from its internal findings on Electronic MEdical Record Certification and Adoption that there may be several different entities bodies that certify EMRs for participation in the $18 billion EMR incentive program authorized by the economic stimulus legislation. Regular updates can be found by visiting www.MyEMRChoice.com.

Physicians, Electronic Medical Records, Stimulus & Barriers

2009-08-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

Doctors and Physicians Must Adopt Electronic Health Records by 2014:
Stimulus Incentive Funds to ease the Primary Barrier to Entry: Cost

By Doug Wallace, Executive VP, EMR Business Development Solutions

The passage of the American Recover and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) contains provisions under Health Information Technology, Title XIII, that will attempt to bring order and ease the cost of healthcare delivery in the US. Healthcare costs are cited at $2.4 Trillion annually, with estimates claiming one-quarter of these funds are wasted in medical documentation errors, unnecessary procedures and duplicate paper based records.

Doctors will receive incentive payments for “going electronic” and adopting Electronic Medical Records (EMR) starting in 2011. Incentives will drop each year, resulting in penalties for non-EMR adoption after 2014.

To qualify, a EMR must meet the criteria outlined by CCHIT (Certification Committee for Health Information Technology) and demonstrate “meaningful use”, which can be summed up to be compliant with e-Prescribing, interoperability between disparate EMR systems and the ability to provide need reports. A final definition of “meaningful use” is due to be finalized by spring 2010, notwithstanding an ensuing 60 day comment period.

Though cost and a basic understanding of incentives/penalties remains an obstacle to EMR adoption, a recent report claims that interrupting a medical practice’s current workflow and abandoning a well entrenched paper based office is of major concern to doctors, physicians and medical office staffs.

Incentives come in many forms when confronted with the mandate to switch from paper to Electronic Medical Records. Not to be overlooked is the surging expectations of patients that will demand the convenience and practicality which EMRs offer. Soon, physicians will be hearing their patient say, “If you do not offer the convenience of Electronic Health Records (EHR), I’ll go to a doctor who does”.

Moreover, as the US healthcare vertical market lags behind in adoption of technology, a great amount of focus will be placed on Personal Health Records (PHR), the ability for a patient to access their Medical Records via smart phones, thumb drives, USB Wallet cards, and any regularly introduced technology application that offer a patient’s updated and complete medical record “On Demand”.

For more information, visit www.MyEMRChoice.com

IS THERE A "BEST" EMR/EHR SYSTEM?

2009-08-20T15:13:00.000-07:00

Each of the 300+ "best" Electronic Medical Record (EMR)/Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems on the market today offers great benefits, increased productivity and patient convenience, however, we don’t currently rank EMR systems and vendors because our goal is to help physicians find and get into the best EMR/EHR for them and their address the clinical relevance for the doctors and staff. Into consideration must be taken staff/doctor willingness to abandon paper based records, cost, and in itial disruption to current operating procedures. The pay off, when realized should serve to offset the initial pain felt while making the switch to EMR. Rome was not built in a day.

EMR, Meaningful Use & Timeframes

2009-08-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

To qualify for stimulus incentives for Adoption of Electronic Medical Records (EMR), CCHIT has been designated as the sole health IT certifier, for the foreseeable future (August 17, 2009).

One of the issues that federal officials must tackle as they write a rule defining meaningful use of electronic health records is to figure out how to know that a provider organization has achieved meaningful use (HDM Daily).

"Meaningful Use" EMR by definition should be finalized in December, per National Health IT coordinator Dr. David Blumenthal.

"Meaningful USe EMR Definition, timelines

2009-08-14T10:54:00.001-07:00

From eHealth Smartbrief:

"Meaningful Use" EMR:

CCHIT to unveil certification program for meaningful use of EHRsThe Certification Commission for Health IT announced it will release in October a set of criteria that could help health care providers achieve certification for "meaningful use" of electronic health records by 2011. The commission said its certification program will allow hospitals and doctors lacking a comprehensive EHR system to prove meaningful use by certifying e-prescribing and other modular health IT products and services.

EMR Functionality Overkill?

2009-08-10T10:33:00.001-07:00

The requirements of a medical practice may not need all of the mandated functionality that CCHIT requires through "meaningful use". CCHIT compliance requires an exhaustive list of features concerning functionality, e-Prescribing, interoperability, and security.

Paper Based Medical Records versus EMR: Still a chance for errors

2009-08-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

A 2009 National Research Council reported warned that many computer records simply mimic existing paper-based forms and that "poor design...can increase the chance for error".-Forbes, May 11,2009

Video: See how EMR assists the Detroit Medical Center

2009-08-06T09:00:00.001-07:00

See video of how EMR assists the Detroit Medical Center in providing beter patient care by visiting www.myEMRchoice.com

How to move from paper medical records to EMR

2009-08-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

1. Decide what is MY choice of a Compliant EMR system (visit www.myEMRchoice.com);

2. Encourage medical staff to embrace and participate fully in the new technology;

3. Convert existing patient medical records by scanning them electronically and link them to your new EMR system;

4, Automate the workflow of your medical practice (website, online registration, pre-visit insurance verification, scheduling, patient demographics and medical/Rx history, recalls, RX refills, phone messages);

5. Doctor/Patient Encounters captured and coded electronically (CPOE);

6. Seamless capture/submission of ALL procedures, codes, and quick reimbursment;

7. Benefit: Get home earlier and enjoy life.

Chief Complaint/Evaluation/Action

2009-07-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

A single, centralized EMR would threaten all personal health information, allowing fo evaluation and rationing of patient care. Consider: You cannot treat the problem of US Healthcare correctly without getting the diagnosis right.

Internet Based EMRs Requires Superior Broadband

2009-07-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

Electronic Medical Records based on internet connectivity (ASP/Saas) and wireless applications will require a significant boost in US broadband/bandwidth infrastructure. Especially true when taking into account Diagnostic quality imaging.

Poll: Your Thoughts on EMR Adoption

2009-07-08T11:06:00.000-07:00

Ask yourself the following:

Funding incentives for forced adoption of Electronic Medical Records systems is spending, and spending equals taxes;
OR
The improvements in delivery of healthcare will offset any investments in EMR systems, improving the patient, provider and payor relationship.

Please identify your role (doctor, IT, patient, vendor, ect.) and leave a comment! Thank you.

Stimulus funding for Electronic Medical Records

2009-06-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

To track evolution of possible funds available for purchasing Electronic Medical Records (EMR) by each state, visit RECOVERY.PA.GOV (or NJ, etc.).

Doc sees more patients with help from EMR

2009-06-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

The model of a "patient-centered medical home" has aided a primary-care doctor to see 30-35 patients a day, compared with 20-25 for most practices. Nurses update patient Hx, saving hours of work...It helps that the doctor has an ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORD (EMR) system. Currently, less than 20% of docs use EMRs.

(inspired by Business Week, July 6, 2009)

Find out more about an EMR system must and will assist you. Visit www.myEMRchoice.com.

Obama Addressing the AMA and Electronic Medical Records

2009-06-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

June 14, 2009, American Medical Association, Chicago, Il

First, we need to upgrade our medical records by switching from a paper to an electronic system of record keeping. And we have already begun to do this with an investment we made as part of our Recovery Act.
It simply doesn’t make sense that patients in the 21st century are still filling out forms with pens on papers that have to be stored away somewhere. As Newt Gingrich has rightly pointed out, we do a better job tracking a FedEx package in this country than we do tracking a patient’s health records. You shouldn’t have to tell every new doctor you see about your medical history, or what prescriptions you’re taking. You should not have to repeat costly tests. All of that information should be stored securely in a private medical record so that your information can be tracked from one doctor to another – even if you change jobs, even if you move, and even if you have to see a number of different specialists.
That will not only mean less paper pushing and lower administrative costs, saving taxpayers billions of dollars. It will also make it easier for physicians to do their jobs. It will tell you, the doctors, what drugs a patient is taking so you can avoid prescribing a medication that could cause a harmful interaction. It will help prevent the wrong dosages from going to a patient. And it will reduce medical errors that lead to 100,000 lives lost unnecessarily in our hospitals every year.

For more information on EMR, visit www.myEMRchoice.com

EMR "Meaningful Use" definitions

2009-06-16T11:24:00.000-07:00

From the HIT Policy Committee: “EMR Meaningful Use” workgroup's initial recommendations include 22 objectives--most covering inpatient and outpatient care--for EHRs in 2011. These include, among others:*

Use CPOE for all order types including medications

Implement drug-drug, drug-allergy and drug-formulary checks

Maintain an up-to-date problem list

Generate and transmit permissible prescriptions electronically

Maintain an active medication allergy list

Send reminders to patients per their preference for preventive and follow-up care

Document a progress note for each encounter

Provide patients with an electronic copy or electronic access to clinical information such as lab results, problem list, medication lists and allergies

Provide clinical summaries for patients for each encounter

Exchange key clinical information among providers of care

Perform medication reconciliation at relevant encounters

Submit electronic data to immunization registries where required and accepted

Provide electronic submissions of reportable lab results to public health agencies

Provide electronic surveillance data to public health agencies according to applicable law and practice

Comply with federal and state privacy/security laws and the fair data sharing practices in HHS' Nationwide Privacy and Security Framework, released in December 2008.

Source: HealthData Management, June 15, 2009

Your Medical Info at Risk?

2009-06-11T06:26:00.000-07:00

A commentary inspired by Phyllis Schlafly:

"The current administration promises US healthcare cost savings by putting all Americans' health records on a uniform computer system (EMR) so it can be streamline patient care, be accessed from anywhere and avoid treatment duplication and medical errors. In addition to requiring totalitarian controls to force all doctors to conform, this will terminate all medical privacy." (Phyllis Schlafly, Creators Syndicate)

2009-06-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

United States Healthcare Statistics and Adoption of Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

The annual US expenditures on Healthcare is estimated to be $2.3 Trillion, or 17% of Gross Domestic Product. This figure is expected to double over the next eight years. The approximate number of physicians in the US is 900,000 (including non-Federal). Estimates on those physicians who have adopted a component of EMR functionality varies wildly, averaging 10%. Healthcare related cost per person is $6,700 annually. Related insurance premiums have increased more than 100% over the past 10 years.

The use of Healthcare Information Technology to aid in increasing care and decreasing costs is a primary focus of initiatives endorsed by the US Department of Health and Human services. Physicians adopting a “meaningful use” EMR will be provided financial incentives to do so. Currently, there are financial incentives in place for utilizing
“e-Prescribing” systems.

A “meaningful use” Electronic Medical Record system should possess the following components:

Exchange information electronically to improve quality and efficient coordination of patient care, Perform e-Prescribing functionality, and have the ability to be “data-mined” to report on PQRI (Quality Reporting) and other measures

Other considerations to a fully functioning EMR may include:

Scan and archive existing paper records for retrieval and access, e-Prescribe medications, Document and capture a doctor-patient encounter electronically, Provide privacy of a patients data at all times, Provide more timely and current Healthcare coverage and insurance information to avoid billing , Provide a device or access to an online service for a patient to carry or access their Personal Health Record information On Demand.

For move information, visit www.myEMRchoice.com

2009-06-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

Summary of NJ Legislation on use of CCHIT EMR, H.B. 3934, Sponsored by Assemblyman Herb Conaway:

On or after January 1, 2011, no person or entity is permitted to sell, offer for sale, give, furnish, or otherwise distribute to any person or entity in this State a health information technology product that has not been certified by CCHIT.

Please return to this Blog for regular updates.

2009-06-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

To review alternatives to CCHIT Certification for Electronic Medical Records (EMR), visit www.sensiblecertification.com.

2009-04-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

Can myEMRchoice.com assist in understanding the impact of the 2009 Stimulus package for physicians?

PQRI 2009

2009-04-08T12:43:00.001-07:00

The 2009 PQRI consists of 153 quality measures and 7 measures groups.

myemrchoice.com

2008-09-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

"Connecting Physicians to Technology Providers"
www.myemrchoice.com

There are 90+ CCHIT EMR software solutions to chose from. So now what?

www.myemrchoice.com connects Physician groups with practical solutions for successful EMR decision making and implementation, increased revenue and streamlined encounters with patients.

The "countdown to compliance" is on. Visit www.myemrchoice.com.