Last March, the ONC HIT Policy committee submitted recommendations for Stage 3 of the EHR Incentive programs. Just hours before the new year, HHS/CMS submitted the proposed rule to the Office of Management and Budget. The proposed rule would establish policies related to Stage 3 of meaningful use for the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs. Stage 3 will focus on improving health care outcomes and further advance interoperability. Stage 3 is scheduled to begin in 2017. The OMB will review the proposed rule for its economic impact. This is the final step before the rule will be released to the public for comment possibly in February.
The information published states:
In this proposed rule, CMS will implement Stage 3, another stage of the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Program as required by ARRA. We are proposing the Stage 3 criteria that EP’s, eligible hospitals, and CAHs must meet in order to successfully demonstrate meaningful use under the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs, focusing on advanced use of EHR technology to promote improved outcomes for patients. Stage 3 will also propose changes to the reporting period, timelines, and structure of the program, including providing a single definition of meaningful use. These changes will provide a flexible, yet, clearer framework to ensure future sustainability of the EHR program and reduce confusion stemming from multiple stage requirements.
Agency Contact on record is:
Elizabeth S. Holland
Director, HIT Initiatives Group
Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services