The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology has moved to correct some incorrect information in the final rule for certification of electronic health records, taking out two implementation specifications regarding public-health surveillance. HHS previously acknowledged that it had "erroneously" included the measures.

According to Health Data Management, the specifications, both of which are part of the Health Level Seven International 2.5.1 messaging standard, "were not designed for EHR users, but to guide public health agencies on how to report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."

In an interim final rule published last week, ONC says, "After further review of the implementation specifications and consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we have determined that these implementation specifications were adopted in error."

ONC acknowledges that inclusion of the specifications in the final rule for certification of EHRs for the "meaningful use" incentive program has caused confusion among technology vendors and authorized testing and certification bodies. "The adoption of these implementation specifications also presents an unnecessary obstacle for EHR technology developers," the interim final rule says.

The new language became effective upon publication, but HHS is accepting comments on the measure through Nov. 12.

To learn more:
- read this Health Data Management article
- see this CMIO story
- view the interim final rule in the Federal Register

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