What is the goal of the meaningful use criteria in EHR adoption?

The goal of the meaningful use criteria in EHR adoption is to promote effective use of electronic health records (EHRs) to improve patient care. The meaningful use framework was established to encourage healthcare providers to adopt EHR technology in ways that enhance the quality, safety, and efficiency of care. This involves demonstrating how EHRs can lead to better health outcomes, support clinical decisions, and foster patient engagement.

By adhering to meaningful use criteria, healthcare providers are incentivized to utilize EHRs not just as a data repository but as a tool that actively contributes to improving the overall quality of care patients receive. This includes functions like electronic prescribing, sharing health information among providers, and enhancing the coordination of care.

The other choices touch on important aspects of healthcare but do not capture the primary aim of the meaningful use initiative as effectively as improving patient care through the meaningful application of EHRs.