Harness these 7 tips to gain a return on investment for meaningful use objectives

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the business and workflow impact of meaningful use helps practices evaluate whether EHR-related efforts may contribute to efficiency, engagement, and overall financial performance.

Article Sections

1. Meaningful use and practice impact

   Introduces the topic and frames meaningful use as both an administrative challenge and an operational opportunity for physician practices. It also references implementation costs and the broader context for EHR adoption.

2. Patient portals and online access

   Covers how portal-based functions can support scheduling, messaging, and reduced call volume. The section focuses on patient access and practice workflow improvements.

3. Billing, lab results, and reporting workflows

   Discusses online billing and results delivery as tools for reducing staff time and mailing-related work. It also touches on labor savings associated with routine communication tasks.

4. Population health data and preventive outreach

   Explains how clinical and disease data can be used to support longitudinal care and remind patients about services. This section addresses ways data can help practices identify more opportunities for visits.

5. Practice leadership and data management

   Describes assigning responsibility for information flow and using EHR data to monitor progress and support planning. The section emphasizes organizational roles and internal coordination.

6. Interoperability and referrals

   Focuses on information sharing with other providers and the effect on care coordination and reporting. It also notes the relationship between broader exchange efforts and referral relationships.

7. Preparing for a changing healthcare environment

   Concludes with a high-level discussion of how streamlined processes and engagement strategies can help practices adapt. It presents meaningful use as part of competitive positioning in a changing market.