This idea may be obvious. It also may be morally reprehensible. Either way, what do you think?
Imagine the following: you are a small (1-2 practitioners), financially strapped group with a decent sized Medicare population. You have not yet made the switch to an EMR, but would like to do so. The cost of the conversion is a major concern. I would suppose this to be a pretty common scenario. The goal is to get you up and running without any significant upfront cost.
Between now and October 1, do the following:
1. Obtain about $3000 in credit, perhaps via a business credit card
2. Use the card to purchase a decent, but not fancy PC and monitor for about $500
3. Set up internet service to the PC
4. Buy Amazing Charts (about $2000 including a year of support)
5. Register for meaningful use
6. Learn about the MU criteria
Between October 1 and December 31, enter some patient demographics and encounters into AC. This could be as few as 10 or 20; let your conscience be your guide.
Otherwise conduct your practice exactly as you have been.
On January 1, 2012, attest for your MU dollars. You should receive your check by about March 1.
Use $3000 to pay off the credit card. Use the remaining $15,000 however you choose. You could pay for hardware, IT support, and bank part to support your EMR conversion. Or you could take a nice vacation. It?s your call.
Last edited by JBS; 08/18/2011 2:58 AM.
