So....if you use the G codes in early 2011 to avoid the penalties in subsequent years, do you eliminate your chance of getting the (much larger) meaningful use incentive? Or are you better off NOT using the eRx codes, taking the penalties over the years, but getting the MU incentive? It appears that we must make a choice.
Jon does point out a dilemma: if you report G8553 in 2011, you are indicating enrollment in the 2011 eRx incentive (and therefore you can't claim EHR Meaningful Use in 2011). If you
don't report G5883 in the first half of 2011, then you receive penalties starting in 2012.
Not really surprising, considering the rules are written by CMS !
I suspect that if a participating doc registers for the EHR Incentive in 2011, this will satisfy the eRx requirement and avoid penalties in 2012. One of the
Core Meaningful Use Measures is
attesting that 40% of non-controlled prescriptions are generated and transmitted electronically. However, since this is not clear in the CMS FAQs. I have
submitted this question . I'll post back if and when CMS has a response.
Personally, I may play it safe & avoid future penalties by submitting eRx G5883 incentive codes for 2011, then go for the 1st year of the EHR incentive in 2012, when AC version 6 has matured a bit. It is still
possible to get the full $44,000 if you start the first year in 2012.
