Several American newspapers and online journals have unveiled the details of a $20 billion health information technology plan as part of their larger stimulus package .The Wall Street Journal ran a story on the 16th January 2009 detailing how the approach they have taken could allow them to avoid the objections that have stalled similar legislation in recent years." The proposal would establish "an Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology in the Health and Human Services Department by the end of 2009." And, although the legislation "would not require healthcare providers to use health technology," physicians "would initially receive $40,000 to $65,000 to use the technology." Similarly, "hospitals would be eligible for 'several million dollars' in incentives through Medicare and Medicaid."

For more information on this story please visit the Government Health IT site.