One step closer to MU final rule

The combined rules for Meaningful Use Stages 2 and 3 went to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Sept. 3.

A rule going to the OMB is the final step before publication.

Stage 2 modifications have been much discussed, including a 90-day 2015 reporting period, a switch to aligning the reporting period to the calendar year and a reduced patient engagement requirement criticized as virtually useless.

It's unclear whether the action is related to calls for clarity and finalization of the regulations from a range of stakeholders. Most recently, the Medical Group Management Association called for a final rule so practices can adequately prepare.

Beth Walsh,

Editor

Editor Beth earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and master’s in health communication. She has worked in hospital, academic and publishing settings over the past 20 years. Beth joined TriMed in 2005, as editor of CMIO and Clinical Innovation + Technology. When not covering all things related to health IT, she spends time with her husband and three children.

Around the web

CMS finalized a significant policy change when it increased the Medicare payments hospitals receive for performing CCTA exams. What, exactly, does the update mean for cardiologists, billing specialists and other hospital employees?

Stryker, a global medtech company based out of Michigan, has kicked off 2025 with a bit of excitement. The company says Inari’s peripheral vascular portfolio is highly complementary to its own neurovascular portfolio.

RBMA President Peter Moffatt discusses declining reimbursement rates, recruiting challenges and the role of artificial intelligence in transforming the industry.