What does the HITECH Act provide to healthcare providers?

The HITECH Act, which stands for the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, was designed to promote the adoption and meaningful use of electronic health records (EHR) among healthcare providers. By providing financial incentives, the HITECH Act encourages healthcare providers to implement EHR technology that meets specific standards or "meaningful use" criteria. These incentives primarily come in the form of Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement bonuses for providers who demonstrate their usage of EHR in ways that improve patient care and efficiency.

The focus on meaningful use aligns the funding with the overall goal of enhancing healthcare quality and ensuring that providers leverage technology to improve clinical outcomes. As a result, this aspect of the HITECH Act is crucial for advancing health information technology and transforming healthcare delivery in the United States.