CCHIT to launch 'modular' certification in October

Responding once again to critics, the Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology is preparing a new, "modular" certification program specifically designed to help providers meet federal "meaningful use" requirements and qualify for EMR subsidies. CCHIT will launch the modular track in October to test individual EMR components and, presumably, certify standalone products like e-prescribing software.

The commission, as previously announced, also will update its comprehensive certification requirements for inpatient, ambulatory and emergency care to align its program with the stimulus. This work will go on even as HHS works through its definition of "meaningful use," according to CCHIT Chairman Dr. Mark Leavitt, because of the short time frame providers will have to select and implement EMRs before the federal incentive program begins in January 2011.

CCHIT will hold training sessions on these new programs in Chicago on Sept. 29 and Oct. 1 and discuss the changes in an online "town hall" with vendors on Oct. 3.

For more information on these changes:
- take a look at this Health Data Management story