Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

Which legislation supports electronic health record implementation?

1. HITECH

2. EMR

3. ARRA

4. HIPAA

The correct answer is: ARRA

The correct choice regarding legislation that supports electronic health record (EHR) implementation is the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). This significant piece of legislation includes provisions specifically aimed at promoting the adoption of health information technology, including EHRs. It established the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, which provides financial incentives for healthcare providers to adopt and demonstrate meaningful use of EHR technology. This means that through ARRA, there are targeted funding and support mechanisms created to encourage healthcare entities to invest in and utilize electronic health record systems effectively, thereby improving the delivery of healthcare services. The emphasis on meaningful use further ensures that the adoption of EHRs leads to improved patient care outcomes rather than just implementation for the sake of technology. Other options, while related to healthcare, do not directly support EHR implementation in the way ARRA does. HITECH is directly associated with ARRA but not standalone legislation. EMR (Electronic Medical Record) refers specifically to a type of digital record, while HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) primarily focuses on patient data privacy and security rather than the implementation of health record systems.