The meaningful use incentive program did a lot to stimulate the adoption of electronic health records, as many practices were motivated to adopt the technology thanks to sizable incentive payments. But physicians' reasons for transitioning to EHRs are not limited to these types of financial considerations.

For example, speakers at the recent meeting of the Radiological Society of North America stated that EHR systems could hold benefits for medical imaging specialists beyond the incentive payments, according to Search Health IT.

Speakers cited the benefits of incorporating clinical decision support and picture archive and communication systems in their practices, both of which are covered under aspects of meaningful use. These tools could allow radiologists to confer with other specialists to make sure that patients are receiving the most appropriate treatments and are not being exposed to unnecessary imaging procedures.

The National Partnership for Women and Families recently issued a report suggesting that meeting the meaningful use requirements will help practices improve patient safety and care coordination while reducing costs. These may be important benefits for just about any practice, regardless of the availability of incentive payments.