CCHIT Approves Ambulatory Testing Criteria

The Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology (CCHIT) unanimously approved new 2007 criteria for ambulatory EHRs. The final criteria, test scripts, and associated documents are posted on the CCHIT Web site.

These criteria will take effect May 1.

Among a number of new requirements this year, systems must be able to send prescriptions and refills to pharmacies electronically. In addition, vendors must demonstrate the product's ability to electronically receive standards-based lab result messages. Included with the criteria is a roadmap forecasting additional requirements for 2008 and 2009.