Meaningful Use of an Electronic Health Record in the New York City Jail System

Am J Public Health. 2015 Sep;105(9):1752-4. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2015.302796. Epub 2015 Jul 16.

Abstract

Use of electronic health records (EHRs) is an important innovation for patients in jails and prisons. Efforts to incentivize health information technology, including the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program, are generally aimed at community providers; however, recent regulation changes allow participation of jail health providers. In the New York City jail system, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene oversees care delivery and was able to participate in and earn incentives through the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program. Despite the challenges of this program and other health information innovations, participation by correctional health services can generate financial assistance and useful frameworks to guide these efforts. Policymakers will need to consider the specific challenges of implementing these programs in correctional settings.

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care / standards*
  • Diffusion of Innovation
  • Electronic Health Records*
  • Humans
  • Meaningful Use*
  • New York City
  • Prisons*
  • Quality of Health Care