CMS: Hospitals/EPs applying for 2015 hardship exception can attest to meaningful use

Hospitals and eligible professionals can attest to meaningful use of electronic health records for the 2015 Medicare Electronic Health Records Incentive Program if they are requesting a hardship exception, according to a new Frequently Asked Question posted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “Submission of a hardship exception application does not prevent a provider from attesting and receiving an incentive payment if meaningful use requirements are met,” the FAQ states. “If they successfully attest, they will avoid the payment adjustment in 2017 and may also be eligible to receive an EHR incentive payment.” CMS recently posted updated hardship exception applications for eligible hospitals/professionals and critical access hospitals participating in the Medicare EHR Incentive Program. Eligible hospitals and CAHs can submit applications through April 1; EPs must apply by March 15. The deadline for hospitals and EPs to attest to meaningful use of EHRs for the 2015 reporting period of the Medicare EHR Incentive Program is March 11. For more on 2015 reporting requirements, including tipsheets for hospitals and EPs, visit www.cms.gov.