Who Can Enter Orders for Meaningful Use? An Evolving Challenge for Practice Managers

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Healthcare Management
• Medical Assisting

Background:

• Meeting Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program objectives is crucial for medical practices.
• Failure to meet Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) criteria results in forfeiture of incentive payments.
• Specific order entry roles are defined for eligible professionals and credentialed medical assistants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the order entry requirements for Stages 1 and 2 of the EHR Incentive Programs.
• To discuss the proposed Stage 3 rule concerning computerized provider order entry (CPOE).
• To clarify the role of credentialed medical assistants in meeting Meaningful Use thresholds.

Main Methods:

• Review of final rules for Stages 1 and 2 of the EHR Incentive Programs.
• Analysis of proposed rules for Stage 3 issued by CMS on March 20, 2015.
• Examination of specific requirements for order entry in CPOE systems.

Main Results:

• Credentialed medical assistants are permitted to enter medication, laboratory, and radiology/diagnostic imaging orders.
• Order entry by credentialed medical assistants counts towards meeting CMS Meaningful Use thresholds.
• Understanding these rules is vital for eligible professionals to receive incentive payments.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to specific order entry protocols by credentialed medical assistants is essential for EHR Incentive Program success.
• The proposed Stage 3 rules continue to emphasize the importance of defined roles in CPOE.
• Accurate order entry by qualified personnel is a key component of Meaningful Use and incentive attainment.