In the past, chiropractors used to base all of their work – especially patient data – solely through paper records. Chiropractic offices had to employ secretaries to handle paper charts and medical records and file these documents all day.

Today, however, chiropractors have the option to use chiropractic EHR software and save on the high healthcare costs by eliminating their reliance on paper. Doctors of chiropractic no longer need to spend funds on a full-time administrative assistant if they adopt EHR systems. Also, the federal government is now playing a vital role in the spread of chiropractic EHR software as physicians who adopt EHR systems and meet meaningful use requirements will receive monetary incentives.

Last year, the Medicare Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program began and eligible medical professionals flocked to health IT vendors to purchase EHR systems. The American Chiropractic Association reports that this program will last through 2016. There are three specific aspects of meaningful use requirements that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 calls for. These are:
Using certified EHR software to exchange patient information between medical providers in order to improve overall care
Using EHR systems in a meaningful manner
Using EHR technology to transmit clinical quality data as well as other measures.

In order to receive incentives, a "provider must use a certified EHR product and also demonstrate that they have met all of CMS' meaningful use requirements," according to the news source. "For calendar years 2011–2016, eligible professionals who demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology can receive up to $44,000 over 5 years under the Medicare EHR Incentive Program Incentive bonuses."

Chiropractors who wish to receive monetary incentives should purchase affordable chiropractic EHR software.