The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 outlines three components of Meaningful Use:

• The use of a certified EHR in a meaningful manner (e.g.:  e-prescribing).
• The use of certified EHR technology for electronic exchange of health information to improve quality of healthcare.
• The use of certified EHR technology to submit clinical quality and other measures.

In short, “Meaningful Use” means using certified EHR technology in ways that can be measured significantly in quality and in quantity for improved healthcare.

Eligible professionals that attest to Meaningful Use can earn EHR incentive payments.