Meaningful Use of Electronic Health Record by Rural Health Clinics [Policy Brief]

Authors

John A. Gale MS, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research CenterFollow
David Hartley PhD, MHA, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research Center
Zachariah T. Croll MPH, University of Southern Maine, Maine Rural Health Research Center

Document Type

Policy Brief

Publication Date

2-1-2014

Keywords

MRHRC

Abstract

Little information is available on the rate of Electronic Health Record (EHR) adoption by Rural Health Clinics. (RHCs). This study was conducted to identify the rates of EHR adoption among a national random sample of RHCs and the extent to which RHCs that have adopted an EHR are likely to achieve Stage 1 meaningful use. To achieve Stage 1 meaningful use and qualify for meaningful use incentive payments, eligible health professionals must, at a minimum, meet CMS defined criteria for the required 14 core measures. Fifty-nine percent of RHCs report having an EHR, and independent RHCs were more likely than hospital-based RHCs to have an EHR. Common barriers to EHR adoption by RCHs include acquisition and maintenance costs, lack of capital, and potential productivity or income loss during transition.

Recommended Citation

Gale, J. A., Hartley, D., & Croll, Z. (2014). Meaningful Use of Electronic Health Record (EHR) by Rural Health Clinics. (Research & Policy Brief PB-52). Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service, Maine Rural Health Research Center.