What does the term 'meaningful use' refer to in healthcare?

The term 'meaningful use' specifically refers to the adoption and effective use of certified electronic health record (EHR) technology. This concept was introduced as part of the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, aiming to promote the use of EHRs to improve healthcare quality, safety, and efficiency.

Meaningful use involves utilizing EHR systems in a way that enhances patient care by supporting better clinical decision-making, improving care coordination, ensuring privacy and security of patient information, and engaging patients in their own care through improved access to health data. By meeting certain criteria, healthcare providers can qualify for incentives under Medicare and Medicaid programs, emphasizing the goal of using technology not just for the sake of having it, but using it in ways that result in improved health outcomes.

This focus on certified EHR technology is crucial as it encourages providers to use advanced features of EHRs that contribute to the overall improvement of care and healthcare operations, which ultimately drives value in healthcare delivery systems.