As we continue to review the objectives and measures for Modified Stage 2 Meaningful Use set forth from 2015 through 2017, this month's column will focus on information detailing Objective 8: Patient Electronic Access. Readers will note this is a 2-part measure (Table). Measure 1 focuses on timely access, allowing patients to have timely access to their electronic health information with the intention to assist the patient in making informed decisions about his/her healthcare. Measure 2 allows the provider to demonstrate that the unique patients were able to view, download, or transmit (to a third party) their health information. In 2014, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services created a "Patient Electronic Access Tip sheet."2 Although the measure has evolved with different thresholds when transitioning to Modified Stage 2 Meaningful Use, the questions and answers found within this document provide clarity around terms used in the measure.
Cheers to continued diligent documentation and strategic workflows!
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