CMS Announces Final Rule for Meaningful Use 2014 Reporting

The rule pushes back the beginning of the third stage of meaningful use for the first group of adopters until January 1, 2017, as opposed to the old standard of January 1, 2016.

In addition, many providers who are struggling with adoption of the 2014 CEHRT will be granted more flexibility.  Eligible providers essentially now have an extra year to use 2011 Edition software if they can attest that they could not fully implement the 2014 certified version of their EHR because of delays.  CMS recognized that there were issues with the availability of technology because of constraints on software companies due to late certification and high demand.  It is important to note that you must have completed the Security Risk Assessment Measure prior to the end of the reporting period that you are choosing.

In spite of the numerous comments suggesting that there be additional modifications to the rule and especially a more flexible reporting period in 2015, e.g. a 90 day reporting period, the rule indicates that eligible professionals will have to report for the entire calendar year in 2015.   This will require all Meaningful Use participants to have the 2014 certified version of their EHR in place by January 1, 2015.