HHS grants $84M for EHR adoption for health center controlled networks

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced $83.9 million in grants to help Health Center Controlled Networks (HCCNs) adopt EHRs and other health IT systems.

The funds are part of the $2 billion allotted to HHS’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to expand healthcare services.

Forty-five grants will help safety-net healthcare providers implement EHRs and other IT projects, according to the HHS. Eligible professionals practicing within health centers who can demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology may be eligible for incentive payments provided under Medicaid and Medicare.

HCCNs improve the operational effectiveness and clinical quality in health centers by providing management, financial, technology and clinical support services. The networks, comprised of at least three collaborating organizations, are community-based groups that support HRSA-funded health centers that provide primary healthcare to nearly 19 million patients—a number expected to double over the next five years as healthcare reform is implemented.

The grants were awarded through a competitive process. Click here for a complete listing of recipient organizations and grant amounts.