Eligible Provider

What Does Eligible Provider Mean?

An eligible provider (EP) is a healthcare provider who has demonstrated their understanding of electronic medical records (EMRs) by implementing criteria based on EMR patient updates and Meaningful Use laws. Eligible providers include:

• Nurses
• Physician assistants
• Physicians
• Social workers

Techopedia Explains Eligible Provider

Eligible providers must be able to implement specific criteria within their EMRs in order to receive government incentive payments for EMR technology and its maintenance. Medication lists must be updated and maintained such that allergies and current medications are always included. EPs must also record patient diagnoses or problem lists. Computerized physician order entry (COPE) forms must be utilized and lab test orders need to be included within EMRs.

Data gathering for the purpose of medical audits and public health reporting must be possible within the data management capabilties of any facility's or private practice's EMRs. EPs are responsible for doing this themselves, assigning the work in-house or hiring an outside vendor. EPs are often cautioned to choose the appropriate EMR vendor by obtaining references and ascertaining the vendor's availability.