So far, 143 hospitals have attested to meaningful use stage 2, according to the latest CMS data.
Attestations are up from last month, when CMS reported 78 hospitals had reached the stage 2 milestone. However, the still relatively low number suggests providers are struggling to meet the requirements of stage 2.
To aid providers struggling to meet meaningful use stage 2 due to delays in receiving the updated 2014 CEHRT software, CMS recently finalized a rule that would allow providers to use 2011 Edition CEHRT or a combination of 2011 and 2014 Edition to attest to either stage 1 or stage 2.
This flexibility in attestation was largely welcomed by providers when it was proposed this spring. However, the timing of the proposal and the required 60-day comment period means this final rule comes almost two months after the start of the last 90-day attestation period for the 2014 reporting year, frustrating providers who had to make a decision about their attestation plans by July 1.
More articles on meaningful use:
MU patient engagement, TOC requirements continue to frustrate providers
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