AMA to CMS: Critical changes needed before Meaningful Use Stage 3

The American Medical Association (AMA) today called on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to address the challenges physicians are facing with the Meaningful Use program before moving on to the next stage. In a comment letter from AMA Chief Executive Officer and EVP James L. Madara, MD, the AMA recommended the program focus on patient safety, privacy and security, interoperability and how we can promote rather than hinder innovation.

“As we’ve said many times, the Meaningful Use program is not meaningful in its current form and is not helping physicians use electronic health records in a way that facilitates the best care coordination, increases efficiency or improves the quality of care for patients,” said AMA President-elect Steven J. Stack, MD. “We cannot ignore the current problems and barriers that exist with the program. The recommendations we provided address the significant challenges facing physicians, patients and vendors, and, if adopted, will lead to higher quality, cost effective care and increased innovation.”