What does HITECH require EHR certifications to assure?

• A. Unsafe EHRs are not permitted.
• B. EHRs include functionality for meaningful use.
• C. Good manufacturing practices are followed by EHR vendors.
• D. EHRs are implemented properly.

Answer: (B)

HITECH’s certification focus is to ensure EHR technology has the functions needed to support meaningful use. The certification process verifies that an EHR system provides the capabilities required by meaningful use criteria—such as standardized data capture, interoperability with other systems, e-prescribing, clinical decision support, and reporting and patient access features. This directly aligns certification with enabling providers to meet MU requirements and qualify for incentives. Safety or manufacturing practices aren’t what the certification standard is about, and certification doesn’t guarantee perfect implementation in every practice, it ensures the product itself can support meaningful use functionalities.