Electronic health records (EHRs) have been credited for their potential to improve documentation and communication to impact quality, but have also raised numerous concerns regarding their cost, complexity, and privacy limitations. Physicians who treat Medicaid or Medicare patients and demonstrate “meaningful use” of electronic health records are eligible for significant financial incentives, and this is the final year to be eligible for the full incentive.

Starting in 2015, Medicare reimbursement rates will be reduced for physicians who do not meet this requirement. While psychiatrists are increasingly expressing interest in EHRs, for physicians in solo and small practices, the tasks of selecting, implementing, and effectively using EHRs are daunting.

To help psychiatrists wade through these complex issues, APA’s Committee on Electronic Health Records, chaired by Steven Davis, M.D., is sponsoring the workshop “Electronic Health Records (EHRs): What to Look For When Selecting an EHR for Your Practice” at APA’s 2012 annual meeting. It will be held on Saturday, May 5, at 11 a.m. in Room 109A of the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

The workshop will provide recommendations for the different types of functionality to look for when selecting an EHR for a psychiatric practice. EHR usability, certification, the steps involved in EHR implementation, and exchanging information with other clinicians (Health Information Exchange) will also be discussed. The workshop will conclude with ample time for attendees to pose questions to members of the committee.