Recently, Dr. David Blumenthal, the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, issued a press release regarding “meaningful use” and the recommendations of the HIT Policy Committee. The HIT Policy Committee was charged with making recommendations regarding the definition of meaningful use and certification and adoption standards. As part of its recommendation, the HIT Policy Committee submitted a matrix of health outcomes and objectives to be achieved in 2011, 2013 and 2015. To view the matrix click here.
The health outcome policy priorities described in the matrix include:
- Improve quality, safety, efficiency, and reduce health disparities;
- Engage patients and families;
- Improve care coordination;
- Improve population and public health; and
- Ensure adequate privacy and security protections for personal health information.
Though the date is still to be determined, the HIT Policy Committee plans on having an informational hearing regarding its recommendations in October. HHS plans on releasing the proposed rule in December and will have a public comment period in early 2010.
