The ONC posted notice and request for comment in the Federal Register, May 28, 2009 for the establishment of Regional Extension Centers. The plan outlines the program and its goals as well as the criteria for qualifying center applicants. It also discusses levels of provider assistance and the types that would qualify for minimal or comprehensive. Awards are expected to total $1-2 million and start in early 2010. The likely award winners will be disclosing sources of matching funds.

The Regional Extension Centers were mandated under the HITECH Act. Their purpose is to provide technical assistance to providers seeking to adopt a certified EHR system or enhance their current EHR systems. The notice is not soliciting proposals but serving to invite and begin the comment period. The due date for comments is 5 pm, June 11, 2009. Electronic responses are preferred and should be addressed to HealthIT-comments@hhs.gov. Written comments may also be submitted and should be addressed to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, 200 Independence Ave, SW., Suite 729D, Washington, DC 20201, Attention: Health IT Extension Program Comments.