Frequently Asked Questions
What is an eligible professional (EP)?
“Eligible professional” is defined by the Social Security Act of 1932—Definition of “Physician” (section r). Most physicians in the specialties we serve are considered an “eligible professional” and can participate in the meaningful use program. Because each state licensing board can impact the definition of a physician, we recommend that each provider determine if they are eligible based on the law. For help, visit the CMS website.
How do I “demonstrate” meaningful use?
To receive an EHR incentive payment, physicians must prove that they are “meaningful users” of certified EHR technology. CMS has created two sets of objectives EPs must meet during the reporting period (either 90 days or 1 year). At the end of a reporting period, EPs are required to attest that they met the requirements specified by CMS.
Is ChartLogic certified?
Yes. In fact, ChartLogic was the first EHR in the nation to be fully certified for meaningful use.
What does “certified” mean?
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) has defined a certification process for certifying and testing bodies. To become certified, an EHR vendor must apply to an authorized testing body and pass the required test scripts.
Can I use modules from several different vendors?
Yes, as long as each module is certified.
What is the difference between the Medicare and the Medicaid incentive programs?
Physicians under the Medicare EHR Incentive Program must demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology and can receive up to $44,000 over five years. Physicians under the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program can receive up to $63,750 over six years and are not required to demonstrate meaningful use the first year.
Not all states are participating in the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program. Check with your state Medicaid agency for more information. EPs may qualify for both programs, but they cannot collect incentives from both at the same time.
Are there any exemptions for specialists?
Stage 1 meaningful use is comprised of 25 objectives. Fifteen are required, and EPs can choose which five of the remaining 10 objectives they want to achieve. Some objectives do provide exemptions for specialists. EPs must file for these exemptions during attestation.
Can I dictate and still qualify for meaningful use?
Absolutely. In fact, dictating is one of the easiest ways to meet meaningful use requirements.
