With an estimated $1.5 billion in potential bonus payments available for radiologists who demonstrate meaningful use, authors of a new study are urging radiologists to make sure they understand what is required of them so that they don’t miss the boat. 

According to meaningful use experts, many radiologists mistakenly believe they were "left out" of the meaningful use rewards or that compliance is technically impractical.

However, "with diligent preparation, including the adoption of new technology and workflows, the vast majority of radiologists can qualify before October 2012 to capture the full available rewards and avoid later penalties," said Murray A. Reicher, MD, chairman of DR Systems, Inc. and co-author of the article, which appears in the September issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology.

Reicher recommends radiologists first become knowledgeable with regard to the required technology and clinical objectives. He also says it would be wise for radiologists to become active participants in their hospital information systems planning process.

"The regulations do not make it easy for radiologists and other specialists to qualify, but they will need to comply nevertheless, using existing and potentially emerging technologies, said Reicher.

"Ultimately, the requirement to collect and communicate clinical information in a standardized manner may finally provide radiologists the clinical integration required to provide ideal patient care," he said.