If 2013 is the first year of participation for an eligible professional, the maximum incentive the professional can earn is $39,000.
Since many anesthesiologists have to use EHR systems that have been selected by others, not all of them can demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR systems and avoid the payment penalty. The American Society of Anesthesiologists successfully sought to secure a hardship exemption for these anesthesiologists. CMS will determine the applicability of the exemption automatically based on a physician’s specialty designation under the Provider, Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System.
The availability of the hardship exemption does not exclude anesthesiologists from the EHR incentive program. Receiving an incentive would override the automatic hardship exemption.
More Articles on Meaningful Use:
Healthcare Associations Urge CMS to Slow Stage 3 Meaningful Use Plans
ONC Opens Comment Period for Meaningful Use Stage 3
Meaningful Use Measures Available on Online Database
