ONC Certification: What New EHR Vendors Need to Know in 2026

Author: Jean Jacques Nya Ngatchou, MD | December 12, 2025

ONC certification is the gateway to the US healthcare market. Here is what the process actually involves, what it costs, and where new vendors get stuck.

Certification is market access

Without ONC certification, your EHR cannot participate in federal incentive programs. Certification is not optional—it is the minimum bar for participation.

The certification landscape in 2026

The ONC Health IT Certification Program is governed by the 21st Century Cures Act with requirements including FHIR R4 API support, SMART App Launch, and information blocking compliance.