Is MU worth it in 2014?

Wondering if it’s still worth it to join (or continue) the Meaningful Use EHR Incentive program in 2014? Regulations are steeper, incentive payments declining, software upgrades required and other priorities are knocking on your door – a lot to consider.



But here’s the “glass half-full” perspective. If you haven’t yet reached Meaningful Use, 2014 is actually not a bad time to start. Here’s why.

The EHR market has shaken out considerably – 2014 certified vendors are probably here for the long haul. And they have learned a thing or two – some bugs have been worked out. The “cloud” has figured out HIPAA compliance while delivering better performance. CMS has clarified their regulations much more than at the dawn of Meaningful Use. The IT infrastructure environment you need to satisfy data exchange requirements (HIE’s, secure email, public health registries, other provider EHR’s) has grown.

Plus, as the REC program enters its fifth year, we’ve had four years to gain priceless experience helping providers succeed. For first-timers, the REC program still offers subsidized consulting assistance to hold your hand through the attestation process. And because here in North Texas we have already helped over 1000 providers successfully attest, you’ll get the best help we’ve ever delivered. After 2014, when our federal grant runs out, RECs will have to charge more or you’ll have to go it alone. Free professional IT consulting assistance with Meaningful Use and HIPAA is worth a lot!

And while the EHR incentives aren’t what they once were (under Medicare), each new enrollee can still bank $21,250 (under Medicaid) or up to $11,760 (under Medicare) in 2014 with additional payments still available in coming years. Plus, you avoid a year of impending one percent Medicare penalties.

If you decide to go for it, we’re here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us at information@ntrec.org.