Meaningful Use is the use of certified electronic health record or EHR software in practices, hospitals, clinics, and by other medical service providers to improve efficiency, safety, and overall quality of care.
Deeper dive
Meaningful use sets specific objectives that eligible professionals and hospitals must achieve to qualify for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Interoperability Programs (formerly known as incentive programs)
Among the requirements is using certified electronic health record (EHR) technology to:
- improve quality, safety, efficiency and reduce health disparities
- engage patients and families
- improve care coordination, population and public health
- maintain privacy and security of patient health information
The goal is that greater compliance with these regulations improves clinical outcomes, increases transparency and efficiency, empowers individuals and provides more robust data on health system use.