iHealthBeat: Public Health

Biden's Cancer Cure Initiative Looks To Improve Data Sharing

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:03:00 Z

Vice President Biden is leading a new effort to find a cure for cancer that will leverage health IT and data sharing. He says the effort will focus on eliminating "silos" that prevent researchers from sharing data and encouraging "technology innovators" to advance research and care delivery. FierceHealthIT et al.

Gun Control Rule's HIPAA Modification Draws Mixed Reactions

Tue, 12 Jan 2016 17:24:00 Z

The American Legion has raised concerns that HHS' final rule modifying HIPAA to ease the sharing of mental health records could prevent some veterans from seeking care. Meanwhile, some groups hope the final rule will prompt more privacy rule changes to help providers of drug and alcohol misuse treatment share records. Modern Healthcare, American College of Physicians release.

Wash. Governor Calls for Better Data Sharing To Improve Gun Safety

Thu, 07 Jan 2016 17:44:00 Z

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has signed an executive order requiring government agencies to collect and share data on gun-related hospitalizations and deaths, among other provisions. The order comes days after HHS finalized a rule to increase mental health data sharing for firearm background checks. AP/Modern Healthcare, Office of the Governor release.

Study Indicates Online Reporting Can Benefit Patients With Cancer

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 18:56:00 Z

A study finds that patients with cancer who reported their symptoms using a tablet or computer had a higher one-year survival rate than patients who did not. An accompanying editorial suggests that "this intervention may be particularly effective in informing the management of vulnerable populations." Reuters, Journal of Clinical Oncology.

New Online Fraud Tracker Flags Possible Health Care Scams

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 18:24:00 Z

A new online Scam Tracker tool released by the Better Business Bureau has flagged 100 possible health care-related scams since its launch on Tuesday. The tool could prove particularly useful to consumers signing up for health coverage during the Affordable Care Act's open enrollment period. Modern Healthcare's "Vital Signs."

Social Media, Data Analytics Enable Real-Time Flu Tracking

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 18:26:00 Z

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology finds that electronic health records, crowdsourced surveillance data, Google searches and tweets can be used to accurately track influenza outbreaks in real time. Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital say their "ensemble model" reached a 90% correlation with CDC's two-week forecasts. Health IT Analytics, Boston Children's Hospital release.

Yelp Could Help Public Health Officials Track Food-Borne Illnesses

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 11:00:00 Z

Research suggests that consumer review websites such as Yelp could serve as an early warning system for food-borne illness outbreaks and help public health officials identify affected individuals. One study finds Yelp reviews mentioning food poisoning closely aligned with CDC's food-borne illness data. Kaiser Health News.

Online Tool Can Help Patients Check Lung Cancer Screening Eligibility

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 17:39:00 Z

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds that a Web-based decision-making tool can help smokers determine whether they should be screened for lung cancer. Participants' opinions about their screening eligibility and their actual eligibility were more likely to align after using the online tool. Reuters.

Health 2.0 Confronts Entrenched Health Challenges

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 10:00:00 Z

At the 9th annual Health 2.0 conference last week in Santa Clara, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talked about how "technology can actually help us tackle so many problems in health that we see as insurmountable."

Two Health IT Winners Announced for Mayo Innovation Challenge

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:28:00 Z

Mayo Clinic and health care accelerator AVIA have named two health IT winners -- Care at Hand and Wellpepper -- in Mayo's inaugural THINK BIG Challenge. The challenge aims to promote health maintenance and prevention and to help individuals with chronic conditions live productive lives. Health IT Analytics, Mayo Clinic release.

HHS Launches New Disaster Preparedness Information System

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 16:34:00 Z

HHS has launched a new information system that will allow health and emergency preparedness professionals to find and share documents to help prepare for and respond to disasters. The system includes an assistance center, an information exchange and technical resources covering a wide range of topics. FierceHealthIT, HHS release.

Health IT Finalists Announced for Mayo Clinic Innovation Challenge

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 18:03:00 Z

Mayo Clinic and health care accelerator AVIA have announced six finalists in Mayo's inaugural THINK BIG Challenge. The challenge aims to promote health maintenance and prevention, and help individuals with chronic conditions live productive lives. Clinical Innovation & Technology.

Report Finds EHR Contributed to Dallas Hospital's 2014 Ebola Issues

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 18:21:00 Z

An independent review of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital's misdiagnosis of an Ebola patient last year raises concerns about the hospital's over-reliance on electronic health records and poor communication among staff at the hospital and the emergency department. The report urges the hospital to incorporate EHR configuration into its disaster preparedness. Washington Post's "To Your Health" et al.

Google, Sanofi Team Up on Diabetes Treatment, Management Tools

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 17:14:00 Z

Under a new partnership, Google and drugmaker Sanofi SA will develop tools to help improve diabetes treatment and management. For example, the partnership could help create small, Internet-connected devices that automatically suggest or adjust insulin dosages. Reuters et al.

Health IT Tools Are Burdensome for Chronically Ill, Older Patients

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 16:51:00 Z

A new study identifies several barriers keeping individuals with multiple chronic conditions from adopting health IT tools to track their data. The researchers say developers should focus on creating tools that "clearly reduce patient inconvenience and burden" and cut the workload associated with tracking health data. FierceMobileHealthcare, Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Intel, Oregon-Based University Launch New Cloud Cancer Platform

Thu, 20 Aug 2015 18:04:00 Z

Intel and Oregon Health & Science University have launched a joint initiative, the Collaborative Cancer Cloud, that aims to improve secure data sharing for providers and researchers. With the platform, physicians and researchers can securely send and receive relevant, non-identifying data. Health Data Management, Intel release.

CDC Announces Blood Pressure Challenge With Health IT Aspect

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 17:15:00 Z

CDC has announced the Million Hearts Hypertension Control Challenge, which aims to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes by 2017 by leveraging clinical approaches, such as health IT. Up to 35 winners in three categories will receive recognition from CDC Director Tom Frieden. Health Data Management, HHS release.

Health Care Executives Eye Potential for Video Games in Medicine

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 17:33:00 Z

Health care industry executives see promise in the use of online video games in health care, such as improving diagnoses, boosting clinical drug trials and increasing individuals' cognitive skills. However, they note that the time and money it takes to gain FDA approval could pose a challenge for developers. KQED/NPR's "Shots."

IBM Hopes CVS-Watson Partnership Leads to More Connections in Cloud

Thu, 06 Aug 2015 10:00:00 Z

IBM officials hope a new partnership with CVS pharmacies will create a platform in the Watson Health Cloud to allow many organizations and agencies to collaborate with the goal of eventually improving the country's health care delivery system.

Study: Electronic Interventions Ineffective for Reducing Alcohol Intake

Tue, 04 Aug 2015 17:40:00 Z

A new study finds that electronic interventions could help individuals slightly reduce alcohol consumption in the short term, but they are less effective for long-term behavior changes. The study reviewed research on interventions delivered via mobile applications and online platforms, among others. HealthDay/U.S. News & World Report.

CDC Allocates $110M To Bolster Disease Surveillance, Response

Tue, 04 Aug 2015 17:13:00 Z

CDC has announced nearly $110 million in funding to support state, local and territorial health departments track and respond to infectious diseases, an increase of about $13 million over fiscal year 2014 funding. Among other things, the funds will be used to support surveillance systems and health information systems staff. The Hill, CDC release.

Data Analytics Tool Identifies Best Treatments for Cancer Patients

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 17:54:00 Z

A new data analytics tool was able to match cancer patients with the best drug therapy based on their specific genes. The tool analyzes data on cancer-fighting drugs and compares the data with a publicly available cancer genome database to recommend drug treatments. United Press International, University of Colorado Cancer Center's "Colorado Cancer Blogs."

Online Tool Analyzes Tweets To Determine States' Caloric Balances

Thu, 30 Jul 2015 17:03:00 Z

University of Vermont researchers used an online, interactive tool to analyze tweets from Twitter users throughout the U.S. to determine the amount of calories residents in each state consume and expend. Experts say refining such tools could improve public health monitoring via social media. Washington Post's "Speaking of Science."

California Unveils First-of-its-Kind Cancer Data Sharing Partnership

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 17:51:00 Z

The California Department of Public Health has announced a partnership with several health care organizations to collect real-time data for the state's cancer registry. The project aims to help researchers better understand cancer trends in California. Health IT Analytics et al.

ONC Announces $38M in Grants To Bolster Use of Health IT

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 18:21:00 Z

Today, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT unveiled three new grant programs that provide a total of $38 million to 20 health care entities to advance the use of health IT. The two-year grant programs target health data exchange, population health management and workforce training. FierceHealthIT, HHS release.

Analysis Taps Mobile App Data To Identify Most Active States

Tue, 07 Jul 2015 16:52:00 Z

An analysis of data compiled through fitness and workout tracking mobile applications -- such as MyFitnessPal and MapMyFitness -- finds that California, Colorado and Washington have the most physically active residents. Meanwhile, residents in Delaware, North Dakota and South Carolina are the least active. Reuters.

Canadian Cancer Organization Launches Global Research Portal

Tue, 30 Jun 2015 17:42:00 Z

The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer has launched a new portal with data from 300,000 Canadians to help bolster cancer research. Researchers from around the world can apply to use the health information for research projects, as well as combine it with other datasets. Clinical Innovation & Technology.

HHS Online Tool Finds At-Risk Medicare Beneficiaries in Emergencies

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 18:24:00 Z

A new online tool developed by HHS can help identify at-risk Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries who rely on electricity-powered medical equipment during emergencies and power outages. HHS says the interactive, Web-based map can help providers plan for emergencies. GCN, Health Data Management.

Amazon, Google Look To Increase Stores of Cloud-Based DNA Data

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 17:44:00 Z

Amazon and Google are working to adapt to the U.S. health care system's new focus on personalized medicine by increasing the amount of genetic data stored on the cloud. Both companies store genomic data in secure, cloud-based settings and offer analytical services to help researchers interpret the data. Reuters.

Clinical Decision-Support Tools Show Promise, but Need Work

Thu, 04 Jun 2015 17:47:00 Z

A new study finds that the use of computerized clinical decision-support tools can help reduce the number of inappropriate advanced imaging tests ordered by clinicians. However, the study shows more work remains to improve the tools' ability to rate whether a test is appropriate. Healthcare Informatics, Healthcare IT News.

Study: Teens Use Digital Tools To Inform Health Care Decisions

Tue, 02 Jun 2015 18:02:00 Z

A new study finds that 84% of teenagers have used the Internet to find health information and that one-third of teens switched to healthier habits because of that information. The study also finds that 21% of teens have downloaded a mobile health application, while 9% have used a wearable health device. Washington Post et al.

Drugmakers Use Big Data, Analytics To Keep Allergy Drugs in Stock

Thu, 28 May 2015 17:40:00 Z

Drugmakers increasingly are turning to big data and data analytics to help ensure that their allergy medications stay in stock. For example, Bayer AG -- which makes Claritin -- uses third-party software that analyzes global warming data to model allergy and weather trends. Wall Street Journal's "Logistics Report."

Tech Experts Play Role in Ebola, Disease Outbreak Response Efforts

Tue, 19 May 2015 17:37:00 Z

Public health workers battling the Ebola epidemic in West Africa leveraged smartphone- and tablet-based tools that allowed them to track and monitor the disease. Researchers say the devices have been tested and could help combat future disease outbreaks. Reuters.

Researchers Use Wikipedia Page Views To Track Seasonal Flu Activity

Tue, 19 May 2015 16:22:00 Z

A study suggests that researchers can use Wikipedia page views to track seasonal influenza activity. Researchers find that Wikipedia article access logs are highly correlated with records of influenza-like illnesses, suggesting that ILI rates can be predicted with accuracy weeks prior to data becoming available. FWC.

Drugmakers Increasingly Turn to Genomic Databases for Research

Thu, 14 May 2015 16:54:00 Z

Drugmakers increasingly are investing in and creating databases of genetic information from patient volunteers to identify rare genetic mutations. Some experts say the use of data analysis in gene sequencing could change the way new drugs are developed. Reuters.

CDC: Electronic Quality Data 'Invaluable' To Tracking Public Health

Fri, 08 May 2015 17:13:00 Z

A new CDC report finds that electronic clinical quality measures derived from electronic health records can help inform clinical condition monitoring programs. For example, eCQM data on patients' blood pressures were used to track progress for HHS' Million Hearts program. FierceEMR, Health Data Management.

Obama Expands Climate Data Initiative To Improve Public Health

Wed, 08 Apr 2015 17:12:00 Z

President Obama has announced a new initiative to release more federal data to better understand how public health is affected by climate change. Several technology companies, including Google and Microsoft, say they will use the data to monitor climate change and improve infectious disease detection and outbreak surveillance. Washington Post et al.

Study: Internet Search Data Might Help Predict Disease Prevalence

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 16:57:00 Z

A new study finds that non-communicable disease risk predictions made using Internet search data nearly match CDC's disease risk estimates, which are based on population data. Study co-author Svetha Venkatesh says search trends could support hard data measurements at a low additional cost. Reuters.

NIH-Led Team To Help Guide Path of Precision Medicine Initiative

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 16:56:00 Z

NIH has revealed a team of experts to help guide President Obama's Precision Medicine initiative and the study of one million volunteers' genetic data. The group, which includes members of the private and public sectors, will collect public input on various topics, including privacy and electronic health records. Health Data Management, MedCity News.

CMS, HHS Leverage Health IT To Improve HIV/AIDS Treatment

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 13:31:00 Z

CMS has awarded $8.7 million to acute-care services provider VillageCare to help develop a mobile platform for medication adherence plans for individuals with HIV/AIDS. Meanwhile, HHS has launched a digital storytelling platform to encourage HIV-infected individuals to seek treatment. Health Data Management, Clinical Innovation & Technology.

AMA, CDC Create Online Tools To Help Tackle Type 2 Diabetes

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:02:00 Z

As part of a new multiyear initiative, the American Medical Association and CDC have created an online toolkit to help health care providers screen and refer high-risk patients to diabetes prevention programs. The groups also developed an online screening tool that lets patients assess their risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Health Data Management, HealthDay/Philadelphia Inquirer.

Computer Model Shows Potential Effect of Measles in U.S. Cities

Tue, 03 Mar 2015 17:54:00 Z

The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health has created an online epidemic simulator that allows individuals to see the potential effect of a measles outbreak in their area. The model comes amid a measles outbreak affecting more than 100 individuals in seven states. Health Data Management et al.

USAID Announces Funding for Initiatives To Fight Ebola Outbreaks

Thu, 19 Feb 2015 18:00:00 Z

Twelve projects will receive funding from USAID for innovations intended to help bolster resources used to combat Ebola in West Africa. The award recipients include a wearable patient sensor, personal protective equipment, a rapidly deployable treatment unit and other initiatives. Modern Healthcare, MobiHealthNews.

Big Data Project Provides First Genetic Profile of City Transit System

Fri, 06 Feb 2015 19:12:00 Z

An 18-month project, called PathoMap, reveals the first genetic profile of a city's transit system by using big data to sequence and identify DNA fragments. Researchers identified 15,152 different life-forms in New York City's subway system and found germs that could cause antibiotic-resistant infections, bubonic plague, meningitis and other conditions. Wall Street Journal, New York Times.

SCOTUS Might Consider Legality of State Health Data Collection Laws

Fri, 19 Dec 2014 17:24:00 Z

The Supreme Court is weighing whether to hear Gobeille v. Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., a case that examines the legality of state laws requiring self-funded insurers to provide certain health information to state databases. States say the data are needed to provide a full picture of population health, while insurers say federal law exempts them from providing such data. Modern Healthcare.

Digital Health Challenge Aims To Improve Health in Underserved Areas

Mon, 15 Dec 2014 19:24:00 Z

The Aetna Foundation plans to award $4.5 million to up to six organizations as part of an initiative to leverage existing digital technologies to improve chronic disease outcomes in underserved communities. Applications will be accepted between Jan. 5, 2015, and Feb. 15, 2015. Health Data Management et al.

Multi-Institution Project Aims To Convert EHR Data Into Phenotypes

Thu, 04 Dec 2014 18:47:00 Z

A multi-institution project aims to convert electronic health record data into phenotypes focused on disease and specific health traits. The project also will aim to develop predictive models for health studies and a system to accurately identify patients for clinical research. Health Data Management.

Experts Caution Against Wave of Tech Donations in Ebola Response

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 18:06:00 Z

While various technology companies and charities have donated smartphones to help with the Ebola response in West Africa, some health IT experts say the efforts could do more harm than good in the region. Meanwhile, IBM has launched software to help with the research efforts. Politico, AP/Sacramento Bee.

Twitter Could Help Researchers Track Seasonal Flu Outbreaks

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 19:08:00 Z

A new study suggests that Twitter could help improve influenza surveillance in the U.S. The study authors note that the social networking site is becoming a more reliable and accurate tool for identifying flu outbreaks. FierceMobileHealthcare, Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Study: Wikipedia Views Can Accurately Predict Disease Outbreaks

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 19:15:00 Z

A study published Thursday in PLOS Computational Biology finds that Wikipedia can be used to predict the spread of infectious diseases. For example, researchers were able to use Wikipedia page views to predict the spread of influenza in some areas 28 days in advance. BBC News et al.

Facebook, Google Launch Ebola Relief Fundraising Campaigns

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 18:28:00 Z

Facebook and Google have launched online campaigns to collect donations to help combat Ebola. Meanwhile HHS' Office for Civil Rights issued new guidance on complying with HIPAA privacy rules during an emergency situation, such as the Ebola outbreak. NPR's "goats and soda" et al.

Google Updating Flu Tracker To Include CDC Data, New Search Terms

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 19:08:00 Z

On Friday, Google announced that its Flu Trends tracking tool will be updated to include CDC data and to better distinguish between individuals who search for information based on curiosity or concern and those who actually have flu symptoms. New York Times' "Bits" et al.

Wikipedia Gaining Reputation as Trusted Source for Ebola Info

Tue, 28 Oct 2014 17:03:00 Z

Wikipedia is nearly as popular as CDC's website for Ebola information. Meanwhile, Connecticut and Maine have launched separate websites to keep residents up to date about Ebola news. In related news, IBM announced that it is leveraging data analytics to help combat the Ebola outbreak. New York Times et al.

Warnings Issued About Fake Ebola Treatments, Malware Scams

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 15:30:00 Z

FDA has threatened three companies with potential criminal prosecution or seizure of property for making false claims online about their products' ability to cure or treat Ebola. Meanwhile, the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team has warned consumers about potential computer viruses designed to look like Ebola updates. NPR's "Shots" et al.

Study: User, EHR Errors Both To Blame in Ebola Misdiagnosis

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 18:15:00 Z

A new study in the journal Diagnosis finds that human and computer errors both contributed to the initial misdiagnosis of the first Ebola-infected patient in the U.S. However, Epic Systems President Carl Dvorak maintains that the electronic health record system was not responsible for the mistake. Modern Healthcare et al.

Texas Hospital Updates EHR After Misdiagnosis of Ebola Patient

Mon, 20 Oct 2014 18:00:00 Z

During a House hearing, a Texas Health Resources official clarified conflicting statements regarding the role of the hospital's electronic health record system in the handling of the first patient diagnosed with Ebola in the U.S. He also outlined modifications that have been made to the hospital's EHR system. Health Data Management et al.

ONC, CDC Initiative Refocused To Use EHRs in Ebola Screening Efforts

Fri, 17 Oct 2014 17:55:00 Z

CDC and ONC are pushing the Public Health Electronic Health Records Vendors Collaboration Initiative, which aims to help providers meet meaningful use requirements, as a way to better identify patients with Ebola. Meanwhile, some experts say fully integrating diagnostic support software with EHRs could alert physicians to patients at high-risk of having Ebola. Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

Mobile Communications System Aims To Combat Ebola Outbreak

Wed, 08 Oct 2014 17:34:00 Z

A new mobile communications system developed by World Health Organization, UNICEF and a North Carolina not-for-profit organization aims to provide health workers in West Africa with accurate data about Ebola to help address an outbreak of the disease. Politico, FierceMobileHealthcare.

EHR Flaw Led to Ebola Patient's Initial Discharge, Hospital Says

Fri, 03 Oct 2014 17:10:00 Z

Officials at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital say that a flaw in the hospital's electronic health record system prevented doctors from seeing the travel history of the first patient diagnosed with Ebola in the U.S., leading to his initial discharge from the hospital. Officials say the EHR flaw has been fixed and the patient remains hospitalized. Modern Healthcare et al.

Obama Urges Better Disease Surveillance To Combat Ebola

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 17:32:00 Z

During a global health security summit at the White House, President Obama called on world leaders to ramp up disease prevention in part by enhancing disease surveillance. The Obama administration has leveraged various health IT tools to track and monitor the current Ebola outbreak in West Africa. United Press International et al.

Perspective Tackles Patient Engagement in Health Technology

Tue, 19 Aug 2014 17:52:00 Z

A Perspective published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association highlights five key components consumer health informatics application developers should consider when creating patient-focused health technology. The authors also note that further studies are needed to improve patient engagement in such tools. FierceHealthIT, JAMIA study.

Maryland's HIE Facilitates Data-Centric Projects To Improve Care

Fri, 15 Aug 2014 17:52:00 Z

Maryland's health information exchange -- called the Chesapeake Regional Information System for our Patients, or CRISP -- is being used to facilitate several cost-cutting reforms and initiatives that help the state save money while improving patient health. For example, health officials use CRISP to respond to local health issues more quickly and effectively. Business Insider.

Online Tool Predicted Ebola Outbreak Before WHO Announcement

Mon, 11 Aug 2014 17:30:00 Z

HealthMap, an online disease tracking tool, predicted the Ebola outbreak nine days before it was officially announced by World Health Organization officials. Meanwhile, experts last week testified before a House subcommittee that the Ebola outbreak highlights the need for a global, interoperable system that detects and monitors disease outbreaks in real time. AP/Politico et al.

Report: Tablet-Based App Curbs Readmissions for at-Risk Patients

Wed, 06 Aug 2014 17:31:00 Z

Health coaches participating in a patient monitoring program that used tablet-based software to assess the health status of recently discharged Medicare beneficiaries helped to curb hospital readmission rates by nearly 40% over six months. Becker's Hospital Review's "Hospital CIO," Health Data Management.

Study: iPad Game Helps Boost Young Individuals' HIV Knowledge

Mon, 28 Jul 2014 17:52:00 Z

A study presented at the International AIDS Conference shows that an iPad-based video game can improve teenagers' knowledge about HIV/AIDS. The researchers found that knowledge about HIV/AIDS increased by three to four points on an HIV knowledge-based test among individuals who played the video game. MedPageToday.

Several CMS Innovation Award Projects To Leverage Health IT

Fri, 11 Jul 2014 17:46:00 Z

Several of the prospective Health Care Innovation Award winners announced this week by CMS plan to leverage health IT in their efforts to test out new, innovative care models. The grants, which will be finalized later this summer, range between $2 million and $23.8 million each. FierceHealthIT et al.

Study: Methodology Changes Improve Google Flu Trend Accuracy

Mon, 07 Jul 2014 18:00:00 Z

A new study finds that the accuracy of Google Flu Trends' disease surveillance system can be bettered by adjusting three of the system's methodologies. The researchers were able to use their approach to improve Google Flu Trends' 2012-2013 influenza prediction from 10.6% to an estimated 7.7%, closer to CMS’ 6% estimate for that timeframe. Health Data Management, AJPM.

U.S. World Cup Team Uses GPS Devices To Track Player Health

Wed, 02 Jul 2014 17:43:00 Z

During the World Cup, the U.S. Men's National Team's coaching staff and physicians used small GPS-tracking devices to record things such as players' hydration, movement and workload to help prevent injury and maximize performance. Such devices have contributed to a lower overall injury rate across all World Cup teams. Bloomberg.

EHR Company Develops 'Wearable Health Record' Google Glass App

Fri, 13 Jun 2014 17:22:00 Z

An application -- developed by electronic health record firm Drchrono -- lets physicians use Google Glass to record a consultation or a surgery and then store that data in the patient's EHR or in Box, a cloud-based storage service. Drchrono is calling the app the first "wearable health record." Reuters.

Online Reviews Can Help Health Officials Identify Foodborne Illnesses

Fri, 23 May 2014 17:52:00 Z

According to a new study, online restaurant reviews could help public health officials identify and investigate outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. For the study, researchers analyzed nearly 300,000 reviews on the website Yelp and searched for keywords related to illnesses. Washington Post's "To Your Health" et al.

Study: iPads Could Boost Screening of Teens' Alcohol, Drug Use

Tue, 13 May 2014 17:42:00 Z

A new study finds that teenagers are open to using iPads to complete self-administered screenings for drug and alcohol use during physician visits. The study's authors note that the use of electronic screenings could reduce the administrative burden on pediatricians by transmitting responses directly to a patient's electronic health record. MobiHealthNews.

Startups Increasingly Offering Online Concierge-Style Health Services

Thu, 08 May 2014 16:35:00 Z

A growing number of health care startups are using the Internet to "fill gaps" in the health care system by offering affordably priced, on-demand services to consumers across the country. Concierge-style care offers basic access to medical services, appointments and other medical services in exchange for a monthly or annual fee. Wired/Kaiser Health News.

Johns Hopkins Receives NIH Grant To Track Flu, Develop Database

Wed, 07 May 2014 17:41:00 Z

Johns Hopkins University has received a grant from NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to research ways to track influenza. The information collected will be used to help develop a real-time, cloud-based database. Health Data Management, Baltimore Business Journal.

ONC Highlights Importance of Data Infrastructure for Public Health

Wed, 30 Apr 2014 18:10:00 Z

An ONC issue brief notes the necessity for public health agencies to create infrastructure to handle the increasing amount of data collected in electronic health records. According to the brief, linking EHR data together in a uniform, structured way could help improve care quality, health research, patient safety and population health. Health Data Management.

Google Files for Patent for Contact Lens Camera, Sensor

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 18:28:00 Z

Google has filed a patent application detailing the creation of a contact lens that features an implanted camera that could collect and process various kinds of data. Observers say the device could prove valuable for individuals with diabetes or those with impaired vision. Los Angeles Times' "Tech Now" et al.

Kentucky Taps HIE Data To Identify, Address Medicaid ED Super Users

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 18:15:00 Z

Kentucky officials are using the state's health information exchange to target Medicaid beneficiaries who frequently visit emergency departments. The initiative aims to provide such beneficiaries with more coordinated care in an effort to reduce unnecessary Medicaid spending. Clinical Innovation & Technology, GCN.

Study: Wikipedia Tracks Flu Better Than Google, Faster Than CDC

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 18:15:00 Z

A new study finds that researchers were better able to track and identify flu levels using Wikipedia data than using Google Flu Trends. In addition, the study found that the Wikipedia data identified flu trends about two weeks faster than CDC data. Bloomberg Businessweek et al.

Google, Other Firms Working To Address Illegal Online Pharmacies

Thu, 06 Mar 2014 19:03:00 Z

Google and other companies -- such as Facebook, Microsoft and Visa -- are working with the federal government and law enforcement officials to combat illegal online pharmacies and the sale of counterfeit medications. A 2013 report found that 97% of active Internet pharmacies do not comply with U.S. standards. National Journal/NextGov.

Settlement Reached in Minnesota's Use of Newborn Blood Samples

Tue, 14 Jan 2014 19:20:00 Z

The Minnesota Department of Health has reached a settlement with 21 families who sued the state over its newborn screening program. The state health department established a database of genetic test results and a DNA bio-bank of blood samples without parental consent. AP/Minneapolis Star Tribune et al.

Website Tracks Influenza Based on Patients' Email Reports

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 18:55:00 Z

Flu Near You -- a website that launched in 2011 in partnership with the Boston Children's Hospital's HealthMap -- tracks influenza based on self-reported information from an estimated 80,000 participants. An official says the site can be used to examine influenza trends and the overall success rate of flu vaccinations. Daily Beast.

Ohio Courts Must Report Mental Health Information to New Database

Tue, 07 Jan 2014 19:03:00 Z

Courts in Ohio are required to report mental health information about individuals convicted of violent crimes to a law enforcement database under a new state law. However, some observers have criticized the law, saying it raises civil rights concerns. AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

White House Aims To Boost Health Data Reporting to Gun Database

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 18:48:00 Z

The Obama administration has proposed a rule that would ease legal barriers under HIPAA that prevent states from reporting certain medical information to a federal database. The database is used to ensure guns are not sold to individuals who are prohibited from owning firearms, such as people with substance use disorders and those with severe mental health issues. Health Data Management et al.

New Online Disease Database Tracks 125 Years of Outbreaks

Mon, 02 Dec 2013 19:15:00 Z

A recent New England Journal of Medicine article describes a new publicly accessible database that contains more than 125 years of infectious disease case data. The database will allow researchers to review disease trends and study how to handle future outbreaks. Washington Post et al.

Social Media Can Boost Disease Outbreak Monitoring, Study Finds

Thu, 21 Nov 2013 18:18:00 Z

A San Diego State University study finds that monitoring social media sites like Twitter could help health officials and providers more quickly identify serious disease outbreaks. Such information could improve the allocation of resources and help curb outbreaks, according to researchers. Medical News Today.

Website Seeks To Offer Guidance on Health Tracking Devices, Apps

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 18:48:00 Z

Center for Connected Health, a division of Partners HealthCare, has announced the launch of Wellocracy, a website that aims to provide clinically based, unbiased and easy-to-understand information about health tracking devices and applications. Clinical Innovation & Technology, Boston Business Journal.

Report: Health IT Adoption Critical To Improving Population Health

Wed, 16 Oct 2013 17:33:00 Z

A new Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative report states that widespread adoption of health IT systems like electronic health record systems and health information exchange is vital to the success of population health management. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

CMS Seeks To Implement Text4Baby Pilot Program in Four States

Tue, 08 Oct 2013 17:18:00 Z

CMS has awarded a three-year contract to implement a Text4baby text messaging pilot program in four still-to-be-determined states. The initiative seeks to expand efforts to enroll Medicaid beneficiaries in the service and customize texts to include state-specific information. FierceMobileHealthcare.

Lawmakers Urge Craigslist CEO To Remove Illegal Rx Drug Ads

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 14:30:00 Z

California Sen. Ted Lieu and Nevada Sen. Tick Segerblom are urging Craigslist to remove advertisements that illegally sell prescription medications, such as Xanax and Vicodin. Lieu said he will ask law enforcement to intervene if the website does not delete such ads. Los Angeles Times, Lieu release.

Bill Reintroduced To Extend EHR Pay to Behavioral Health Care

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 18:17:00 Z

Yesterday, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse reintroduced legislation that would make meaningful use incentive payments available to mental health care and behavioral health care professionals and facilities. Government Health IT, Whitehouse release.

Cancer, Patient Groups Spend Millions To Build Genetic Databases

Tue, 17 Sep 2013 17:44:00 Z

In an effort to support drug development and clinical trials, cancer foundations and not-for-profit patient groups are investing millions of dollars in projects aimed at building genetic databases. The databases seek to collect DNA and other information from patients with diseases that are difficult to treat. Wall Street Journal.

Organizations Not Prepared To Use E-Health Tools During Pandemic

Tue, 20 Aug 2013 17:30:00 Z

An Australian study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology finds that organizations worldwide would not be adequately prepared to use electronic health systems in the event of a widespread pandemic disease. FierceHealthIT.

Expert: Exchanges Could Boost Quality Reporting, Delivery Reform

Tue, 13 Aug 2013 15:46:00 Z

Health insurance exchanges created under the Affordable Care Act could improve quality reporting and help boost care delivery, according to Sarah Dash of Georgetown University's Center on Health Insurance Reform. Dash -- who spoke at an Alliance for Health Reform briefing on Friday -- said some exchanges could ask insurers to record data on specific issues. MedPage Today.

Verizon, Children's Health Fund Launch First Mobile Telehealth Clinic

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 16:33:00 Z

The Verizon Foundation and the Children's Health Fund have rolled out a telemedicine-enabled mobile medical clinic for low-income children in Miami. Under a partnership between the organizations, 15 mobile medical clinics nationwide will be upgraded with the latest health IT. Government Health IT et al.

More Physicians Seek Access to Patients' At-Home Monitoring Data

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 15:52:00 Z

Some health care providers are seeking access to data from patients' home-based monitoring devices in an effort to reduce costs and boost health outcomes. However, experts say that some issues -- such as providers' distrust of patients taking their own measurements or the high cost of systems that integrate with such devices -- are prohibiting widespread use of such data by physicians. Boston Globe.

EHRs Can Improve Immunization Data Reporting, Study Says

Tue, 23 Jul 2013 12:01:00 Z

A study published in the journal Applied Clinical Informatics finds that automated reporting through electronic health record systems helped accelerate the collection of immunization data and provided public health agencies with a more comprehensive picture of at-risk populations. FierceEMR et al.

Health IT Funding Boost Needed To Enhance CDC's Infection Tracking Network

Wed, 10 Jul 2013 12:00:00 Z

Health care organizations and officials say CDC's health care-associated infection tracking system needs a significant funding boost to take advantage of health IT advances that could exponentially increase its capacity and capabilities.

NYC Campaign Promotes HIV/AIDS Awareness Through Social Media

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 17:40:00 Z

A group of eight "peer leaders" are using social media websites -- such as Facebook and Twitter -- to educate men who have sex with men about the risks of HIV/AIDS as part of a New York City-based outreach campaign. The program is funded by a $25,000 grant from the Center for AIDS Research. New York Times' "City Room."

Facebook Considers App To Help Transplant Patients Finds Donors

Mon, 01 Jul 2013 17:49:00 Z

After successfully launching a way for members to indicate their organ donor status, Facebook is working on an application that would give patients who need organ transplants a platform to describe their situation and ask for help. American Medical News.

California-Based Group Serves as 'Match.com for Unused Medicine'

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 07:00:00 Z

California-based SIRUM -- or Supporting Initiatives to Redistribute Unused Medicine -- is leveraging technology to collect unused prescription drugs from nursing homes and match them to low-cost and no-cost clinics that need the medication. Fast Company's "Co.EXIST."

Google Official Defends Efforts To Address Rogue Online Pharmacies

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:00:00 Z

In a blog post Tuesday, Google Legal Director Adam Barea outlined how the company is working to curb the illegal online sale of prescription drugs. The blog post comes after allegations earlier this month that the company had not been doing enough to address the issue. InformationWeek.