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Earlier this week marked the opening of the 60-day window for public comment about the HHS’ “meaningful use” rules.  Input from practitioners and other stakeholders will help to refine the final version, which is expected to be completed in Spring of 2010.

Since the Health Information Technology Policy Committee’s July 2009 meeting, many practitioners have been feeling uneasy about moving forward with what could potentially be a large financial and human resource investment without more definite and final criteria defining meaningful use. The December 2009 updates do not significantly change the committee’s earlier direction. Variations are minor, and include the ability to implement drug-drug/drug-allergy checks, e-prescribe and check insurance availability electronically.

While the clarifications are much welcomed, many providers (and some in the health information technology community) see a long road ahead in achieving meaningful use. The first step will be adoption, and providers are reticent to adopt unless they see the potential for a better workflow and improved outcomes for their patients.

End users: now’s the time to weigh in. You can accept the government’s initial effort and be subservient to the criteria, whether they are realistic or within reach. Or, make sure that the seeds are planted now for you to eventually cultivate technologies that remove complexity, are user friendly and have the greatest impact on patient care.