VeriChip Corp, Delray Beach, FL, a provider of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems for healthcare and patient-related needs, announced that it is re-launching its VeriMed Health electronic health records (EHR) system.

The VeriChip is the first-ever first-ever implantable passive RFID microchip and is found in the VeriMed Health Link HER system.

According to VeriChip officials, the company believes its history and expertise in patient identification and EHRs will position it to benefit from stimulus funds provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, which authorized $23 billion in spending for healthcare information technology, with a concentration on the implementation and adoption of EHRs.

In 2004, the company received FDA clearance of its VeriMed Health Link patient identification system for emergency room patients who are unable to communicate. The system includes a handheld scanner for ER personnel and the link to first-ever implantable passive RFID microchip, the VeriChip, which stores patient information, including electronic health records.   

In July 2008, the company sold a significant portion of its assets to The Stanley Works and reduced its Health Link marketing efforts. In November 2008, VeriChip’s former Chairman and CEO Scott R. Silverman purchased a majority ownership position in the company. In July 2009, the VeriChip received $4.4 million previously held in escrow related to The Stanley Works transaction.

Commenting on the re-launch of Health Link, Silverman says, "For years, VeriChip has been an outspoken proponent of a nationwide, interoperable electronic health records system to decrease medical errors, reduce costs for providers and insurers, and ensure the best standard of care for patients. As the company moves forward with a comprehensive platform of identification technologies and tools, starting the process with our existing Health Link EHR is only logical."

The company said it has begun a process to ensure that its EHR is compliant with the certifications set by the Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT), thereby enabling physicians and hospitals that use the company's EHR to qualify for stimulus funding. The company has enrolled a total of 536 patients in the Health Link EHR.