SHAHEEN ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $1 MILLION TO EXPAND USE OF HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AT COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS

(Washington, D.C.)-U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen today announced that Community Health Access Network, based in Newmarket, has received $1,106,358 from the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to adopt electronic health records (EHR) and other health information technology systems. This funding was made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help expand health care services to under and uninsured individuals through community health centers. 

"Community health centers provide much needed health care services to uninsured and underinsured families across the state, and this funding will help Community Health Access Network better serve the families that rely on their services," said Shaheen. "As we continue to look for ways to make our health care system better, technology is essential to improving the quality of care patients receive, and this type of funding will make an impact in communities across New Hampshire."

The funding, which was awarded through competitive grants, will support new and enhanced EHR implementation projects as well as health information technology innovation projects.  Funds will allow Community Health Access Network to use EHR technology to improve health care quality, efficiency, and patient safety. Eligible professionals practicing within health centers who are able to demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology may be eligible for incentive payments provided under Medicaid and Medicare.