There has been much discussion over the use of electronic health records, and now the government has devised a final set of rules to define "meaningful use," to which hospitals will have to adhere.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius this month announced the final rules. Some highlights of the rule include enhanced flexibility in regards to allowing hospitals to meet objectives of meaningful EHR use.

It is hoped that by expanding use of EHRs, patients and health care providers will ultimately find health care costs go down while increasing safety.

"Health care is finally making the technology advances that other sectors of our economy began to undertake years ago," says health information technology national coordinator Dr. David Blumenthal. "Adoption and meaningful use of EHRs will help providers deliver better and more effective care, and the benefits for patients and providers alike will grow rapidly over time."

One of the main reasons hospitals have been slow to embrace EHRs is cost. While the initial investment associated with going electronic may seem high, it could potentially save hospitals money.