ONC Certification

About ONC Certification

ONC i.e., Office of National Coordinator for Health Information Technology has introduced the Health IT Certification Program in order to enforce a standard and meaningful use of Electronic Health records. ONC certified HIT products assure users that the EHR software system comprises the technological capabilities, functionalities and security requirements that meet the criteria of meaningful use. The certification also ensures the provision of a compatible and structured format for patient data that can be retrieved from and transferred to other EHR systems.This is a voluntary certification program but of high importance when it comes to participating in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) programs like MIPS. The requirements for this certification are established by standards, implementation specifications and certification criteria adopted by the Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

About ONC Cures HTI–1 update

The Health Data, Technology, and Interoperability: Certification Program Updates, Algorithm Transparency, and Information Sharing Final Rule (commonly referred to as HTI-1) was finalized by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) and
published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in January 2024. HTI-1 builds upon the foundation established by the 21st Century Cures Act and subsequent ONC certification updates, with a focus on advancing interoperability, improving transparency of health IT algorithms, and strengthening information sharing requirements. Following its publication in the Federal Register, HTI-1 introduced updates to the ONC Health IT Certification Program, including new certification criteria related to decision support interventions and predictive algorithms, revisions to existing criteria, and clarifications to information blocking and
FHIR-based exchange requirements. These changes are intended to promote trust, safety, and equity in the use of certified health IT while continuing to reduce burden and support standardized data exchange.

How is it useful for the users? or its benefits

As an EHR vendor, our HTI-1 updates enhance the value and usability of our software by improving transparency, interoperability, and clinical confidence for our users. These updates ensure that clinicians have clearer visibility into clinical decision support and predictive tools, including greater insight into how recommendations are generated, which supports informed clinical judgment and regulatory compliance. Enhanced FHIR-based interoperability enables more reliable access to patient data across systems, reducing manual data entry and supporting continuity of care. Additionally, HTI-1-aligned updates strengthen safeguards around information sharing and algorithm use, helping practices meet evolving federal requirements while maintaining trust, efficiency, and patient-centered workflows. Overall, these improvements reduce administrative burden, support compliant use of advanced health IT features, and empower users to deliver higher-quality care.