CMS released a final rule on August 29 that allows more flexibility in how healthcare providers use certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) to meet Meaningful Use (MU) in 2014. For eligible professionals (EPs) planning on attesting to the CMS Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs for a 90-day reporting period in 2014, here are some important considerations:

• For EPs who have never attested and are wishing to avoid the 2015 payment adjustment, you must attest no later than October 1, 2014, using 2014 CEHRT and 2014 MU Stage 1 objectives. An approved hardship exception that was submitted prior to July 1 will also avoid the payment adjustment in 2015. Read More.

• First time attesters who are unable to fully implement their 2014 Edition CEHRT due to delays in CEHRT availability may attest using 2011 Edition and the 2013 MU Stage 1 objectives. The 2015 payment adjustment will still be assessed unless a hardship exception was approved. Read More.

• Inability to fully implement 2014 Edition CEHRT must initially stem from a problem with getting the software installed due to vendor delays. Click here to view acceptable and impermissible situations.

• Supporting documentation must be maintained if an EP is unable to fully implement their 2014 Edition CEHRT and attests using one of the MU flexibility options. Click here to view details about supporting documentation.

 More information about the MU flexibility final rule can be found at the CMS EHR website.