CMS: Financial
Incentives for e-Prescribing in 2009
[Posted 10/27/2008]
The
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is
creating a new incentive program for eligible
practices that successfully use electronic
prescription systems. This initiative is part of the
Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act
of 2008 (MIPPA). The financial incentives will start
in 2009 and decrease over the following three years.
Starting in 2012, penalties for not using
e-prescription systems will begin and will increase
in subsequent years. This approach is expected to
ripple beyond Medicare-related services.
Most healthcare providers and regulators see
e-prescribing and electronic medical records as
primary ways to reduce medical mistakes and improve
patient care. However, many in the health field have
been slow adopters of these technologies, mainly
because of the initial cost of the technology and
training of staff.
Related Links:
CMS e-Prescribing Incentive Program
CMS e-Prescribing Incentive Fact Sheet
Medscape Medical News
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