Regional Extension Centers for Health Information Technology
Beginning next year, physicians that adopt and make effective use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to improve patient care can earn up to $63,750 from Medicaid. To get the incentive, providers must have an EHR that achieves meaningful use (MU). Basically, providers must show that they are using the system to improve their patients’ health. Providers must use an EHR certified by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONCHIT).
Software must be able to generate MU reports to submit to the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). This requires specific functionality. In last year’s stimulus legislation, Congress anticipated the extra burden that EHR implementation would impose on small provider organizations. Funds were set aside to develop Regional Extension Centers to assist small practices and community health centers with purchasing, implementing and using EHRs. PA has been awarded a grant by the federal government to a non-profit partnership that is led by Quality Insights of Pennsylvania to establish an East and West Regional Extension Center entitled “PA REACH.”
The PA REACH East/West are the only federally authorized organizations to help providers transition to MU. Be sure to contact PA REACH prior to signing a vendor contract so you can be sure that the software measures up to MU.
To learn more about PA REACH for Eastern PA: attend one of the Outreach and Education Sessions that are scheduled around the state or vist the website.
To learn more about PA REACH for Western PA: attend one of the Outreach and Education Sessions that are scheduled around the state or visit the website.
ARRA Funding and Pediatric Meaningful Use - Frequently Asked Questions
This document, prepared by Sue Kressly MD, FAAP (Warrington, PA) provides a good background on qualifications for ARRA funding of pediatric EHRs and meaningful use.
PA Department of Public Welfare Plans for ARRA Funding
Click this link for information on DPW's Health Information Technology Initiative. Take a special look at the Pediatric Care EQUIP document found under the sub-heading "Electronic Quality Improvement Projects". This document outlines DPW's thoughts on pediatric outcome measures.
Nominations for Pediatrician of the Year Award
Please consider nominating a colleague for our annual PA AAP Pediatrician of the Year award. As President, Dr. Turkewitz has had the pleasure of presenting the award to the last three winners: Dr. Fatula, Dr. Cindy Christian and Dr. Narayan Shah. While none of these pediatricians were driven by the need to receive accolades from their peers, still each one embraced this as a very special moment in their life. So, if you can think of an exceptional pediatrician, then get the ball rolling by submitting their name. Click here for application information.
Featured Practice: Breastfeeding Center of Pittsburgh
Click here to learn about this pediatric practice, which offers high quality, comprehensive lactation support to mothers and infants.
The PA AAP recognizes the important work of pediatric practices who serve children and families in their communities. To request your practice be considered, e-mail Suzanne Yunghans at paaap@paaap.org.
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