The Federal Government is close to weighing in on the definition of meaningful Use. We expect news on specific criteria imminently, maybe as early as tomorrow.

Still, even as we inch closer to receiving clarity, physicians should not let any confusion around this term keep them on the sidelines of the HIT decision making process. Physician practices and hospitals can be using what they know today to determine which HIT solution is best for them.

Some specific questions I’d recommend you’d ask the various HIT providers whose product you may be include:

·      Is their product certified under the current CCHIT program and, if so, in what year?

·      Is their solution capable of electronic prescribing?

·      What type of support will your practice receive as you go through the cultural change of switching from a paper to an electronic-based system?

Each of these key considerations will not only be important as you look to complete a smooth transition, but are also factors in the level of incentive funds you receive back from the Federal government for the HIT purchase, implementation and quality reporting.

You can also see more by viewing a recent video that looks to provide information and guidance for physicians as they start the HIT buying process. http://digg.com/d1tdg5