CMS Releases Proposed Rule for EHR Incentive Program    The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in December 2009 released a proposed rule outlining the agency’s vision for the new electronic health records (EHR) incentive program. Under this program, physicians are able to receive incentives equal to 75 percent of their allowable Medicare Part B charges for “meaningful use” of an electronic health record, subject to an annual limit that varies. CMS has proposed a three-staged definition of meaningful use. Stage one would begin in 2011 and would require physicians to report on 25 proposed measures. Stages two and three include increased requirements and CMS has said it will release proposed rules for each stage. CMS has provided a 60-day public comment period for this rule. The ACC is in the process of developing formal comments and will continue to work with CMS to help the shape final program and ensure that ACC members are in a position to take advantage of these incentives, particularly in a time of declining reimbursement. Greater detail about the proposed rule is available online.