Many Eligible and Critical Access Hospitals that intend to attest to Meaningfully Using Certified EHR Technology (and thus qualify for the significant available Incentive Program Funds) have already begun their reporting period in preparation for the 2011 attestation deadline. For those who have not, however, the time to begin is drawing to a close.

July 3, 2011 marks the last day that Eligible and Critical Access Hospitals may begin the necessary 90-day reporting period in time to attest and qualify for 2011 Meaningful Use Incentive payments. Failing to qualify for the incentive payment for 2011 does not disqualify providers from qualifying in later years, but it does mean that they will earn less incentive, in total, over the life of the Incentive Program.