I am an Eligible Provider.  Can I switch between the Medicare and Medicaid Meaningful Use EHR Incentive Programs in 2015?

NO.  A provider could have switched between programs one time through the meaningful use reporting year 2014. In 2015, unless it is your first MU reporting year, you may no longer switch between Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive programs.

CMS MU Tipsheet dated 5/2013 states:

"EPs may receive an incentive payment based on the criteria of the program under which they elect to receive payment (Medicare or Medicaid). Before 2015, an EP may switch between the programs one time after the first incentive payment is initiated"

Do I need to worry about Stage 3 Meaningful Use right now?

On March 20, Stage 3 Meaningful Use Proposed Final Rule was released. You are probably thinking - "I'm not even sure I understand Stage 2, and now there's Stage 3 - what do I have to do now!"  Relax! Providers and Hospitals are not expected to meet Stage 3 criteria until 2017. We recommend you continue to focus on whatever Stage of Meaningful Use you are in now.

If you are ready to look ahead, you can prepare for Stage 3 by becoming familiar with and moving towards electronic reporting of Clinical Quality Measure data in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Electronically reporting CQMs is a large part of Stage 3. Start asking your vendor what you need to do to report CQMs electronically and begin fine tuning the data being collected by your EHR, so when it does come time to report you have accurate data going to CMS.

For more information, check out electronic CQM reporting for hospitals and clinics/providers.

If you're ready for more information on Stage 3, the PROPOSED final ruling can be accessed at the link below. The comment period for the proposed ruling ends May 29, 2015.

Need Help?  Take a look at our Meaningful Use Assistance or contact us directly.