HIT Policy Committee Discusses "Meaningful Use"

At a recent meeting of the HIT Policy Committee , small practice and solo physicians, community health providers, behavioral health providers, doctors who treat minorities testified that "meaningful use " may be a good idea in theory, but there are many problems. The providers said they don't see many doctors adopting HIT, while others say collection of data could be used to punish them in the future.

Many of the complaints focused on financial and time barriers. Physicians have asked ONC and CMS to consider expanding and clarifying the requirements for "meaningful use." CMS, with counsel from ONC, is currently writing a proposed rule on meaningful use, to come out by the end of the year, according to David Blumenthal, head of ONC.