Physicians in Louisiana are aided by Louisiana Health Care Quality Forum (LHCQF) in the adoption of health information technology (HIT). Specifically, this Regional Extension Center provides physicians with technical guidance and information needed for them to implement electronic health record (EHR) systems. Louisiana Health Care Quality Forum was created under the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act’s Health Information Technology Extension Program.
Achieving meaningful use of EHR systems starts with the purchase of certified EHR software, however, it is difficult and time-consuming for physicians to choose valuable EHR software. This is due to the vast amount of EHR vendors and the complexity of choices available. Louisiana’s Regional Extension Center can help streamline the selection process and aid in the EHR software implementation process for physicians. This center is also committed to the long-term goal of supporting the development of Health Information Exchanges.
Some Regional Extension Centers may provide physicians with a list of preferred EHR vendors that have been screened from a pool of EMR (electronic medical record) companies. These preferred EHR vendors have demonstrated their commitment to the health information technology mission.They offer physicians more meaningful use of EHR software through a higher base level of functionality and interoperability. Additionally, the preferred EHR vendors can offer discounted prices and group prices, as well as standardized terms and conditions to facilitate quick and smooth adoption of EHR software for these Regional Extension Center participants.
There are no preferred EHR vendors recommended by Louisiana’s Regional Extension Center LHCQF.