How to Manage Information Systems in Health Care

Utilizing information systems in health care is relatively new, and "a revolutionary tool to help patients navigate a fragmented health care system," according to Boston Globe reporter Lisa Wangsness in the April 13, 2009, article "Electronic Health Records Raise Doubt."

Health care providers manage most information systems in the medical field. Such systems are called EHRs, or Electronic Health Records. It is now possible to manage your own health care records online by using a PHR, or Personal Health Record, program. Managing your own health care using a PHR is empowering and beneficial in numerous ways.

Things You'll Need

• Computer access
• Personal Health Record Web-based program
• Medical records

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Instructions

• 1

  Understand that the goal of PHRs is to help you better manage your health and the care that you receive from providers. Use a PHR for many reasons, such as to manage medications, view drug interactions, make medical appointments and share your information with select providers and caregivers.

• 2

  Know your options. The primary two PHRs are Google Health, released in February 2008, and Microsoft's Health Vault, released in October 2007. Both of these programs are free, and although they are in the beta stages, neither software maker plans to charge for basic services in the future. PHRs are Web-based, which means that you can access your personal health records from any computer using your password.

• 3

  Choose a PHR by comparing features, and consider what software you are most comfortable using. For a comparison of Google Health and MS HealthVault, read Vince Kuraitis' article on the e-CareManagement blog linked in References.

• 4

  Input your medical information in the PHR. It is up to you what information to include in your record. There are three ways to import your information: (1) enter it manually; (2) import it from a healthcare provider that has partnered with the PHR--for example, you can find Google Health partners on its website: http://www.google.com/intl/en-US/health/about/profiles.html; or (3) pay a third-party company to collect and format your medical records for importation into your PHR.

• 5

  PHRs are password secured

  Decide who will have access to your files. Only give access to those you want to view your health information. PHRs are password-secured and will not share your information with anyone other than those to whom you grant access.

• 6

  Update your files regularly. You will gain the maximum benefit from the information system you set up to manage your health care if everything is up-to-date and complete.