Stage 1 meaningful-use criteria emphasize which data usage?

• A. Data exchange with other providers
• B. Use of EHR data to track conditions and coordinate care
• C. 80% of provider orders electronically
• D. Advanced decision-support

Answer: (B)

Stage 1 meaningful-use emphasizes using the information stored in the EHR to actively manage patient care—specifically, using the data to monitor key conditions and coordinate care across different providers and settings. This means having structured data such as problem lists, medications, allergies, and test results readily available so clinicians can track disease activity over time and ensure appropriate, continuous care. Among the options, using EHR data to track conditions and coordinate care best captures this practical focus of Stage 1. While data exchange, electronic ordering, and decision-support features are part of the broader MU landscape, the essential emphasis in Stage 1 is on leveraging the EHR data to monitor conditions and coordinate care.