Few doubt the benefits of implementing an EHR, but can confused on where to turn for help.

One of the most beneficial places to get help implementing your EHR is locally. Regional Extension Centers (REC) offer unbiased EHR implementation support throughout the entire process. These organizations, funded by the Office of National Coordinator (ONC), can also serve as a two-way pipeline to local and federal resources.

• Tri-State REC Information
• I-HITECH REC Information

Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs provide incentive payments to eligible professionals and hospitals as they adopt, implement, upgrade or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology. Eligible professionals can receive up to $44,000 over five years. To learn more about Medicare EHR Incentive Program, click here.

Eligible professionals can receive up to $63,750 over six years. To learn more about the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program, click here.

Not sure if your EHR vendor is certified? There is a tool to help with that as well. The ONC has a list of all the EHRs they've tested and certified and you can find the list here.

Finally, it is essential to have qualified EHR professionals on your staff for now and in the future. Recruiting graduates from ONC funded community colleges is a great way to ensure your practice has the talent required. IUPUI is now offering Health Information Technology classes partially funded by the ONC. Ivy Tech Community College teamed up with the Midwest Community College Consortium to educate students in the implementation and optimization of EHRs. Almost all of the classes are available on-line and last about 6 months.