Policy for Expanding Electronic Health Record Adoption through Regional Extension Center Program in the United States

Abstract

This article examines how the US has facilitated electronic health record (EHR) adoption through its EHR Incentive Program and Regional Extension Centers (RECs). Established in 62 different locations throughout the US, the RECs have helped primary care physicians, small hospitals, and rural health clinics adopt EHRs and meet the requirements for incentives. This program consisted of assistance in EHR adoption and maintenance, education and training on health information communication, assistance in the protection and safety of private information, and continued technical assistance. The result of such support was a large increase in the adoption of EHRs among small hospitals and rural health clinics. The US case suggests that Korea needs customized support programs for small hospitals and clinics, for whom the rate of participation in the national electronic medical record certification system remains extremely low.