To describe trends in primary care physicians' use of health information technology () between 2009 and 2012, examine practice characteristics associated with greater capacity in 2012, and explore factors such as delivery system and payment reforms that may affect adoption and functionality.
We used data from the 2012 and 2009 Commonwealth Fund International Health Policy Surveys of Primary Care Physicians. The data were collected in both years by postal mail between March and July among a nationally representative sample of primary care physicians in the United States.
We compared primary care physicians' capacity in 2009 and 2012. We employed multivariable logistic regression to analyze whether participating in an integrated delivery system, sharing resources and support with other practices, and being eligible for financial incentives were associated with greater capacity in 2012.
Primary care physicians' capacity has significantly expanded since 2009, although solo practices continue to lag. Practices that are part of an integrated delivery system or share resources with other practices have higher rates of electronic medical record () adoption, multifunctional , electronic information exchange, and electronic access for patients. Receiving or being eligible for financial incentives is associated with greater adoption of s and information exchange.
Federal efforts to increase adoption have coincided with a rapid increase in capacity. Delivery system and payment reforms and federally funded extension programs could offer promising pathways for further diffusion.
