HIDI Tech Connect - July 29

State To Host Regional HIE Meetings In August
MHA Staff Contact: Theresa Rogers

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes multiple health information technology provisions. The definition of “meaningful use” as an eligibility criterion for both Medicare and Medicaid’s electronic health record adoption incentives is critical to Missouri hospitals. A proposed rule defining “meaningful use” is expected by the end of the year, and MHA has submitted detailed recommendations. However, it is clear that a key element of “meaningful use” will require provider participation in a health information exchange. ARRA makes grant funds available to states for planning, designing and implementing a HIE.

MHA has been meeting regularly with state leaders about HIE and is pleased that our state is now fully engaged in this issue. In August, the state is convening a series of six regional discussion meetings on HIE. MHA has recommended invitees to represent the providers’ interests at these meetings.