Community health system readies docs for EHR incentives

Community Memorial Health System of Ventura (CA) has rolled out a new electronic health record and practice management solution to its 70 physicians in preparation for the release of government incentives for IT adoption. The new stimulus funds - approximately $44,000 to $64,000 per physician - will become available through the Department of Health and Human Services to providers who can demonstrate the "meaningful use" of healthcare IT in 2011. Officials of Community Memorial Health System said the implementation of the new EHR/PM solution was the first step in order to make affiliated practices eligible for the new incentives. The EHR/PM solution, developed by Chicago-based IT provider Allscripts, is expected to enhance the quality of care, improve patient communications, and better manage the cost of care delivery, said Memorial Health officials.