Electronic health record systems are here. While only a handful of government-certified, incentive-eligible systems designed for ambulatory practices were on the market at the beginning of this year, there are now more than 160 of them vying for your attention (and your business).

In this issue of Chiropractic Economics, we’re here to help you make sense of this complex subject and get you up to speed on the state of EHR products. You’ll learn how to evaluate software and vendors, and get a sense of what’s involved in installing and learning to use a new system.

Since last year, some matters of debate have been resolved, and some DCs have already achieved the “meaningful use” standard required for CMS incentive payments.

Be aware that EHR rules and standards are still being written. The information contained in this issue is current as of publication, but we are following a moving target. Before making major decisions about EHR, check with official sources for the most current information.

Even if you have no immediate plans to upgrade your office’s IT posture, you should still find the following articles on EHR and practice management software to be worthwhile. The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics has found that an estimated 44 percent of MDs were using full or partial EMRs as of 2010.

Full story