Why does AC does not automatically recognize decision support or HM items? Perhaps I am using it wrong? Ex. BMI, BP, Smoking, A1c, aspirin etc. are HM items which even if done are not recognized. One has to go into each item separately and document the date and finding ... I think these have to be tracked as part of MU, isn't it? How is everybody else handling this task. Please advise.
Well, at the moment we aren't handling the task. But I did play around with HM and it seems that you are correct in your assessment "One has to go into each item separately and document the date and finding."
In the Help Window in AC (which can be accessed by pressing F1), if you search for the topic "meaningful use" you can find out how AC can help you achieve MU.
As an example of the things you'll find there, I'm posting this:
ALTERNATE CORE CQMs
NQF 0024 - Weight Assessment and Counseling for Children and Adolescents
HOW TO DO THIS IN AC: This screening can only be met in children aged 2-16 years who have had at least 1 visit during the reporting period. This criteria has 3 parts, based upon age of patient: 0024a (2-16 years), 0024b (2-10 years), 0024c (11-16 years). It also has 3 numerators for each part: Numerator 1 (BMI), Numerator 2 (Nutrition Counseling), and Numerator 3 (Physical Activity Counseling). You will only need to worry about the numerators as we automatically sort out the aged based parts.
Numerator 1 (BMI): Enter height and weight in the vitals area of Most Recent Encounters (BMI is automatically calculated) and sign the encounter.
Numerator 2 (Nutrition Counseling): This can be met in Decision Support or with an ICD9 code. In Decision Support, double click on "Behavioral Counseling in Primary Care to Promote a Healthy Diet in General Population", enter the appropriate (emphasis is mine) comments and Save. Or you may enter the ICD9 code V65.3 (Dietary Surveillance and Counseling) in patient's Most Recent Encounters or Summary Sheet
Numerator 3 (Physical Activity Counseling): This can be met in Decision Support or with an ICD9 code. In Decision Support, double click on "Behavioral Counseling in Primary Care to Promote Physical Activity", enter the appropriate (emphasis mine) comments and Save. Or you may enter the ICD9 code V65.41 (Exercise Counseling) in patient's Most Recent Encounters or Summary Sheet
I don't believe that you have to enter in BMIs and weights and BPs into HM. The data is being tracked in the chart. Additionally, I'd recommend making your own "results" templates for HM to handle patient counseling documentation.
