How Meaningful is Meaningful Use Stage 2 for Clinical Labs?

The business model of most hospital and independent laboratories will be challenged by Meaningful Use Stage 2 (MU2). Each laboratory will need to think beyond its traditional role of a simple outreach and revenue center. MU2 raises the bar for lab data and clinical laboratories must play a significant role in coordinated care and decision support. Further, MU2 stands to change the nature of EHR-LAB connectivity in the U.S., with much tighter integration being required. Many laboratories may find that they lack the skill set and tools for LOINC, and that their LIS is not up to the task. As a result, laboratories will need start working immediately to take a much more active role in leading, defining, and participating in coordination EHR efforts within their community.



Source link