Meaningful Use regulations represent progress; More work to be done

"While the American Medical Association (AMA) is still in the process of reviewing the Meaningful Use regulations published today, we are pleased that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) listened to the AMA and the concerns of physicians in several key areas in the modifications rule. In particular, the agency addressed the delay in issuing the modifications rule by allowing a hardship exemption for physicians who are unable to attest this year, providing needed relief for those uncertain about the 2015 program requirements. We also acknowledge that the agency is working to improve patient engagement by ensuring that patients can access portals while still providing flexibility in the measure requirements.