That's something many docs are asking when they think about why and how to convert paper records. Many small practices not only don't see the point, but could never afford to turn away patients -- also known as "income" -- while staff get trained.
The Vermont legislature decided to help out. In the most recent session, lawmakers developed a health IT fund for stand-alone doctors not connected to large hospital networks. Or about 300 independent, primary care physicians.
A fee of nearly two-tenths of a percent will be charged on all medical claims starting October 1. It's for statewide development of a health information network and the implementation of electronic health records. The state hopes the fund will generate $4 million to $5 million a year. It will be interesting to see how well it will work.
