CCHIT maps out path to certification with meaningful use focus

CCHIT maps out path to certification with meaningful use focus

Diana Manos, Senior Editor

The Certification Commission for Health Information Technology is expected to release more details on its “modular” certification on Sept. 24, and it is also tentatively planning training sessions in Chicago on Sept. 29 and Oct. 1, to orient vendors and developers to new programs, including updated application processes, certification criteria and test scripts.

The modular approach to certification would tell providers that a healthcare IT product is capable of performing to provide meaningful use, a requirement under the federal stimulus law under which providers could receive bonus payments beginning in 2011.

The certification would be provided in advance of the definition of meaningful use, which is expected out by the end of the year.

Federal officials have said providers would have to make “a business decision” as to whether to go forward in faith with the modular certification ahead of the final rulemaking.

The Certification Commission for Health Information Technology held a “town call” Web conference Thursday to gather input from the vendor and developer communities on the commission’s planned new paths to certification for electronic health record technologies.

CCHIT Chairman Mark Leavitt, MD, said the goal is to achieve more rapid, widespread adoption and meaningful use under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

“We are concerned that providers could not achieve meaningful EHR use in 2011 if they wait until spring 2010 – the expected date of (the Department of Health and Human Services’)’ final approval of requirements – to begin adopting this technology,” said Leavitt, “CCHIT has analyzed the recommendations of the federal HIT advisory committees and is preparing to offer new paths to certification beginning this October.”

Besides updating and enhancing its certification program for comprehensive EHRs in ambulatory, inpatient and emergency department settings, the commission plans to launch a more limited, modular inspection program for EHR technology, focusing solely on compliance with ARRA-required standards.

In an Aug. 14 meeting, the federal government’s Health IT Policy Committee adopted additional recommendations on meaningful use and proposed expansion of EHR certification to include 10 to 12 certification panels in addition to the existing Certification Commission for Health Information Technology. Physicians, activists, vendors and others warned the committee at a meeting that it was moving too fast.

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