That great, growling engine of change – technology – Alvin Toffler, Future Shock, 1970. (Harper, S&S)

The ACC this week submitted its comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on its proposal for the second stage of the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program. EHR adoption and meaningful use of these technologies is not an easy feat given the constant development of new technologies and the many challenges associated with true interoperability across different platforms. CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health IT have definitely undertaken a herculean task. The College’s comments outline the concerns with moving forward with Stage 2 without a careful analysis of Stage 1 – including the challenges associated with participation, as well as the positive results. To quote our comment letter: “We are concerned that the sum total of the requirements contained within this proposal seek to change behavior too rapidly without enough appreciation for the potential consequences.” We will be continuing to work closely with both CMS and ONC to refine requirements in a way that helps, rather than hinders, participation by cardiovascular specialists. (Read the ACC’s summary of Stage 2 requirements).

Meanwhile we are still in the first stage of the EHR Incentive Program, which is good news. However, this year marks the last year for physicians interested in participating to receive the maximum benefit of program participation. Physicians can earn up to $44,000 over five years if they meet the program requirements and begin participating in 2011 or 2012. First-year participants must only comply with the program’s requirements for 90 days, which means interested parties (not already participating) have until Oct. 1 to comply. (Check out this helpful guide from CMS).

We have also partnered with the Managed Care Advisory Group (MCAG) to help members receive incentive payments under program. MCAG uses a dashboard to track physician progress in meeting the Meaningful Use requirements and help identify problem areas. Once requirements are met, MCAG completes and sends the application for the incentive bonus to CMS. MCAG will be hosting a free webinar for ACC members from 1-2 p.m. on May 24, so stay tuned for more information on how to register. CMS also offers a number of resources, accessible via the College’s Health IT page, to help providers through the process themselves. The College is working with CMS to co-host a webinar later in June.