Questions regarding the certification process of EMR technology, as well as the relevance of previous certification procedures, were key topics this week within the healthcare IT industry. Additionally, the impact of Meaningful Use and what it will mean for the EMR certification process was of importance.
A few interesting articles shared among users online explain the impact of recent legislative events and the overall implications of HITECH for patients and providers alike.
- Software Advice: The Medical Blog by Chris Thorman: EMR Ratings: How Relevant Is CCHIT Certification In the HITECH Era? This blog post discusses CCHIT’s role in certifying EMR software products. Recent legislative actions regarding the HITECH Act will be the catalyst for change in the certification process of EMRs, and niches within the market will be redefined.
- HealthImaging.com article: ONC issues final rule for EHR certification program. This article highlights breaking news from this week that involved the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC). The ONC issued a “final rule to establish a temporary certification program for EHR technology.”
- Health IT Buzz by David Blumenthal, MD: Adoption of Health IT. This blog post by the national coordinator for health information technology responds to several questions regarding the state of health IT and the positive impact of Meaningful Use.
The above information is helpful to follow as progress continues with the HITECH implementation.

