In EHR adoption, practice size matters

It's no secret that small physician practices are less likely than larger practices and hospitals to adopt and use electronic health record systems. The federal government's meaningful use incentive program aims to drive widespread EHR adoption. But, small practices are lagging behind and face a much steeper climb to get to meaningful use. According to the Center for Health Care Strategies, nearly 60% of physicians work in practices with four or fewer doctors, and about 65% of U.S. physician visits occur at these small practices. If small practices are left behind in the push for meaningful use, most patients will be, too.