Electronic Health Records (EHR) – $19 Billion
The Department of Health and Human Services has been given $19 billion in incentives to move the healthcare community toward full utilization of electronic health records. The goal for this stimulus funding is to help 90% of doctors and 70% of hospitals adopt EHR within 10 years.
When will the money be available?
In the early years, hospitals and physicians offices that are early adopters of the technology will receive annual bonuses through Medicaid. Beginning in 2015, providers who have not adopted the technology will see reduced Medicare payments. After 2015, the amount of reduced Medicare payments will increase annually. The same type of incentives will be available to Medicaid providers.
Funding will be determined by formula with each qualifying hospital getting a base amount of $2 million. Hospitals will have up to 4 years to become “meaningful” users of EHR.
This segment of funding also includes $2 billion to create a medical record database for the entire country. These funds will be provided to the states on a grant basis and can include training grants to hospitals, doctors and other providers, university health education programs, public health departments, community health centers, and any other entity that provides healthcare to underserved citizens.
Who will decide what to purchase?
Hospitals will likely have an EHR team comprised of the Chief Information Officer, IT Director, HIPAA Compliance Director, and Medical Records Director. The office manager is a key contact at physicians’ offices because they act as a hub for the exchange of information.
The $2 billion designated to create a national database will likely involve Public Health Directors and Primary Care Directors as decision makers.
MCH can help you target these decision makers with high-quality marketing data. Request more information using this form or call us now at 1-800-776-6373.
What will they be buying?
Decision makers will be purchasing computer software, hardware, networking, and support products as well as telecommunications equipment. There may also be a need for materials related to training and compliance.
What does it mean for your business?
If you’ve been marketing to successfully to Hospitals and Physicians’ Offices, redouble your efforts. If you haven’t marketed yet to these segments, call MCH today for an evaluation or use this form to request more information.
MCH is America’s leading compiler of business-to-institution marketing data. We have more than 80 years of experience helping companies sell to healthcare institutions. Contact us today to find out how you can effectively target the $19 billion in electronic health records funding.
