NIST establishing health IT test methods

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has published draft versions of testing methods to guide vendors in how to make sure that their electronic health record products meet technical requirements and standards for sharing information.

The test methods will be used by labs for certification of EHRs for meaningful use. The first of four groups of testing methods are for recording and modifying patient problem, medication and allergy lists. The procedures also include testing the system capability to conduct computerized provider order entry, calculate patient body mass index, plot and display growth charts and keep smoking status current. NIST continues to receive public comment on the test methods, even as they are being rolled out incrementally starting last month.