ONC releases final EMR testing specs for 2014

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) has completed its multi-part releases concerning electronic medical record system (EMR) testing methods and has released the Final 2014 Test Method containing the processes and tools for testing EMRs applying for certification.

The specifications, which include 48 test procedures and 18 sets of test data, will be used as guidance for EMR manufacturers and for providers who have built their own electronic record systems in-house. The document provides testing methods for individual docuentation features, such as drug interactions, advanced directives, medication lists and transitions of care.

The methodology serves as an across-the-board basis for testing and certifying EMR systems for qualification under the federal Medicare and Medicaid EMR meaningful use incentive programs—and as an industry marker for manufacturers that wish to add or enhance EMR system features.

For more information on EMR testing and certification, see the ONC’s 2014 Certification Programs and Policy site.

Pamela Tabar

Pamela Tabar was editor-in-chief of I Advance Senior Care from 2013-2018. She has worked as a writer and editor for healthcare business media since 1998, including as News Editor of Healthcare Informatics. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Kent State University and a master’s degree in English from the University of York, England.