The Meaningful Use Stage 2 Final Rule was recently published, so I wanted to put together a series of posts to help everyone sift through the "government speak" in the Federal Register. Part 1 will include an overview of the intent and try to set a foundation for the proceeding posts. 
Before we start talking about anything it is important we all understand this point:
Meaningful Use rules specify how hospitals and providers use EHR technology. ONC rules specify the capabilities an EHR needs to be certified.
This is critical, because many discussion mix the terms. However, both MU and ONC rules are intended to work in unison to provide a successful framework. In other words, requiring a hospital to meet a guideline that the EHR doesn't have the tools for could be difficult at best. Now on to MU.
For those readers that want to watch the full monty, almost 2 hour presentation you can view it here. If you want the quick and dirty, read on.
The great news is Stage 2 is largely predictable. Most of it builds on Stage 1, and due to its publicity it is a bit easier to understand the intent of the publication. So what's in the box? Here is a bulleted list of major themes in the rule.
- Patient Engagement (interaction between patient and caregivers)
- Advancement of Stage 1 Thresholds
- Interoperability
- Providers and Hospitals MUST implement certified EHR technology that meets ONC standards
- Streamlined reporting through alignment of measures and methods (think ONC and MU synergy)
- No Eligibility changes (these were set in the HITECH Act)
- New clinical quality measures and more flexibility
Timelines
Here are the 3 most important points concerning dates:
- Stage 2 starts in 2014 (as previously announced)
- Because upgrading sucks, you only have to report 3 of 12 months data to be eligible in 2014
- Everyone must upgrade to 2014 technology and criteria by 2014
Yes, 2014 is going to be a busy year. It is critical to understand that even if you are going for MU stage 1 in 2014 you must still use certified EHR technology (ONC). This is one of those points where it becomes hard to understand where MU and ONC fit, but hopefully this helps clear the mud. Basically ONC certified EHRs are required t to participate in MU and get paid!
That takes care of the timelines and sets the stage for a more in-depth look at the changes to the second installment of Meaningful Use. In Part 2 of this post we will cover specifics of Stage 2 and how they impact or involve Pharmacists. Stay tuned!
