Last year, as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Congress passed landmark legislation originated in our Committee and designed to spur the implementation and use of health information technology.  Widespread adoption of Health IT is central to fully realizing the benefits of delivery system reforms, comparative effectiveness research, and improving the quality and value of medical care.

Today’s hearing is intended to review the steps taken by the Department of Health and Human Services to implement the law.  Specifically, the Department issued a final rule last week defining 'meaningful use' of Health IT.  This definition is very important as the Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments – and eventually payment cuts for those who do not adopt or use Health IT – are linked to the meaningful use criteria.

When HHS issued their preliminary regulations, many providers reacted negatively, complaining that the standards put forth for meaningful use were so high that providers would not be able to meet them using existing technology.  The whole purpose of the HITECH Act is to push providers to do more with health IT and do it faster, but it is also important to take a balanced approach so that in our zeal to get to our destination, we don’t leave providers on the sidelines.  

In my opinion, HHS took a responsible position in the final rule.  The standards are aggressive, but set realistic goals.  I know some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle think HHS modified the regulation too much.  To all of us, I suggest we listen to the testimony of our government panel and our stakeholders panel with open minds and use this hearing to learn more about why HHS changed the final rule as they did and to understand all the promise that can come out of these advances in health IT adoption.

Again, widespread adoption and meaningful use of Health IT is of paramount importance if we are to move our health system forward to improve quality and outcomes and slow the rate of cost growth.  I look forward to hearing from our distinguished panel of experts and thank them in advance for being willing to make their voices heard on this important topic.