iHealthBeat: Consumer Information

Study IDs Characteristics of Physicians Who Use Certain Online Tools

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent study finds that doctors who are young, male and have teaching hospital privileges are most likely to use certain Web-based communications tools. The study also finds that 81% of surveyed doctors used a portable device to go online in the previous six months. CMIO.

How Has Online Access to Health Information Affected Consumers' Medical Knowledge?

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sixty-seven percent of consumers say that online access to medical data has made them better informed as patients, while 4% say that online access to medical data has made them misinformed, according to a survey conducted by IPSOS for Wolters Kluwer Health.

Cancer Patients Share Online Data To Gain Doctors' Insight, Advice

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that most cancer patients who discuss online health information with their doctors are seeking insight into the data. Researchers offered ideas for responding to patients who bring up such online data. HealthDay/U.S. News & World Report, Canton Daily Ledger.

Patients Forming Online Communities To Help Boost Medical Research

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Patients are using social networking websites, message boards and other Web tools to form online communities. Such communities can facilitate research by connecting numerous patients with a specific condition. NPR's "Morning Edition."

GW Researchers Launch New Website on Health Information Laws

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

George Washington University researchers have launched a new website to educate consumers, health care providers and organizations about federal and state laws related to health information. The site was funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Healthcare IT News, FierceHealthIT.

White House Launches Digital, Mobile Strategy for All Federal Agencies

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration has unveiled a strategy to promote more widespread Web and mobile access to government information, including health care data. U.S. Chief Technology Officer Todd Park also launched an innovation fellowship program. Modern Healthcare et al.

Caregivers Turning to Online Communities for Guidance, Support

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Caregivers are making greater use of online communities to seek out health information and social support. Certain websites allow family members to track medical information, while others connect users with a larger community of caregivers. New York Times' "The New Old Age."

Most Patients Trust Medical Data Found Online, Survey Finds

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey from Wolters Kluwer Health finds that 65% of consumers who seek medical information online say they trust the data that they find. Sixty-seven percent of respondents say that medical websites have made them better-informed patients. Healthcare Informatics et al.

Lawmakers Propose Bill To Boost Health Care Cost Transparency

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Reps. Michael Burgess and Gene Green have introduced legislation that would require states to establish laws mandating that hospitals publicly disclose the cost of inpatient and outpatient services. The measure also would require health insurers to provide enrollees with estimated out-of-pocket costs for health care services. Becker's Hospital Review, AHA News.

U.K. Initiative Would Allow Patients To Access Health Data Online

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

United Kingdom health officials have launched an initiative designed to make it possible for patients to go online to access their electronic health records and other medical information by 2015. The project also would let patients book physician visits online. Daily Mail et al.

Websites Aim To Help Consumers Compare Health Care Costs

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Websites like Castlight Health and OutOfPocket.com aim to help consumers and employers reduce their health care costs by allowing them to compare the costs of certain medical services. However, several challenges are hindering more widespread use of such websites. Bloomberg.

Claims Database Aims To Provide Insights on Medical Care Costs

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Health Care Cost Institute is compiling a database containing more than 3 billion de-identified medical claims from more than 33 million individuals. Three of the country's largest health insurers -- Aetna, Humana and UnitedHealthcare -- have contributed claims information to the HCCI database. The project aims to help researchers conduct large-scale analyses of information about medical costs. Washington Post, Politico.

A Look at Social Media in Health Care -- Two Years Later

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

When I wrote an iHealthBeat Perspective two years ago, social media in health care was just getting started. Many of my predictions came true, while other trends -- like pharma's big leap into the social media realm and the explosion of mobile applications -- weren't yet on my radar.

HHS Launches Website To Track Data on U.S. Health Care Trends

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS launched an online tool called the Health System Measurement Project to help health care professionals, policymakers and the public track U.S. health care trends. The website provides data on access to care, disease prevention, health IT and other issues. In addition, users can view health indicators by certain demographic characteristics. CMIO et al.

Utah Database Includes Disciplinary Records on Licensed Physicians

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An upgraded database developed by the Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing offers information on disciplinary orders against licensed health professionals, including explanations and copies of the disciplinary actions. Government Technology.

Medical Boards Offer Guidance on Clinicians' Use of Social Media

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New guidelines from the Federation of State Medical Boards' House of Delegates recommend that health care providers always maintain their professionalism and strive to protect patient confidentiality when using social networking websites. CMIO, Modern Physician.

CMS Announces Delay for Data Collection Under Sunshine Act

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS recently announced that it will not require medical industry companies to collect data for the Physician Payments Sunshine Act until 2013. The act requires companies to report certain payments to health care providers, and the information will be available on a public website. Sens. Chuck Grassley and Herb Kohl said they are disappointed by the delay. Modern Physician et al.

What Are Consumers' Top Concerns About Sharing Health Information via Social Media?

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

When asked about their top concerns about using social media to share health information, 63% of U.S. consumers cited their health data being shared publicly and 57% cited their health data being hacked or leaked, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers' Health Research Institute survey.

More Companies Using Online Games To Boost Employee Wellness

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Employers and health insurers increasingly are using online games to encourage healthier behavior among workers. However, researchers note that there is a lack of data showing that such games are an effective strategy to improve employee wellness. Wall Street Journal.

Facebook Initiative Aims To Match Patients With Potential Organ Donors

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Facebook has launched an initiative to help match patients who are waiting for organ transplants with possible donors. Members of the social networking website will be able to declare themselves as organ donors and access links to state donor registries. New York Times.

AHRQ Seeks Input on Plan To Create Registry of Patient Registries

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a Federal Register notice, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is seeking public comment on its plans to develop a Registry of Patient Registries. AHRQ said the registry aims to promote collaboration among researchers. Health Data Management, Federal Register.

Department of Labor Launches Online Portal for Health Care Jobs

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Department of Labor's newly launched Virtual Career Network aims to help individuals find health care jobs and employment training opportunities. The department eventually plans to offer health IT courses through the online portal. Healthcare Finance News, Modern Healthcare.

CMS Adds Home Health Care Provider Data to Consumer Website

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CMS' Quality Care Finder website now includes data on patients' experiences with Medicare-certified home health agencies, such as information about how home health care providers address home safety and other issues. Health Data Management, Modern Healthcare.

How Many Times Per Month Do Certain Types of Patients Seek Online Health Information?

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The average U.S. adult goes online to look up health information about three times per month, while U.S. adults with multiple sclerosis go online for health information about seven times per month and adults with rheumatoid arthritis go online for health information about four times per month, according to a Manhattan Research survey.

Online Patient Networks Could Improve Care, Boost Medical Research

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An online community called the Collaborative Chronic Care Network helps patients with inflammatory bowel disease and their physicians collect data and collaborate on treatment plans. Researchers say such online networks could bolster medical studies. Wall Street Journal.

Consumers Tapping Social Media To Access Health Information

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A PricewaterhouseCoopers survey finds that about one-third of consumers use social media to access health information. Nearly 90% of survey respondents ages 18 to 24 say they would trust health information on social media websites and more than 80% of that age group say they would use social media to share health information. Computerworld's "Government IT," Health Data Management.

Researchers Use Crowdsourcing To Help Advance Brain Studies

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A series of papers published in the journal Nature Genetics show how scientists used crowdsourcing to pool brain research data from more than 200 scientists and identify genes that play a role in brain size and memory. Researchers say the findings are significant because they demonstrate the power of using collective data to advance research. New York Times.

Californians Struggle To Find Accurate Online Medical Pricing Data

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

It is difficult for California residents to determine the cost of common medical procedures. Although hospitals are required by law to publish average charges for certain procedures on a state website, the prices often are not what patients actually pay. Los Angeles Times.

Partnership To Pilot Online Chronic Disease Management Program

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Humana Cares, a division of Humana, is partnering with the National Council on Aging to pilot Stanford University's online chronic disease management program. The pilot will involve Web-based health management workshops. Louisville Business First, Healthcare IT News.

Web Tool Could Reduce Autism Diagnosis Time to Minutes, Study Finds

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An online tool developed by a Harvard Medical School researcher could help trained analysts diagnose children with autism in minutes instead of hours. The tool relies on computer algorithms, an online parent questionnaire and a video clip of the child. HealthDay et al.

What Social Media Websites Are Health Care Providers Using for Professional Networking?

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Forty-one percent of surveyed health care providers said they are using the social media website Facebook for professional networking purposes, while 29% say they are using YouTube and 23% say they are using LinkedIn, according to a survey by health care staffing and recruitment firm AMN Healthcare.

Report Calls for U.S. Health Care Industry To Boost Social Media Use

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report from consultancy firm CSC recommends that U.S. health care organizations expand their use of social media beyond marketing purposes. According to the report, the U.S. lags behind several other countries in hospital adoption of social media tools. InformationWeek.

Senators Urge CMS To Issue Rule on Doctor Payment Disclosure

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, Sens. Chuck Grassley and Herb Kohl sent a letter calling for CMS to release a final rule on the Physician Payment Sunshine Act by June. The Sunshine Act requires medical industry companies to disclose gifts and payments to health care providers. MassDevice, CMIO.

Many Patients Prefer To Access Radiology Results Online, Survey Finds

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology finds that nearly 80% of surveyed patients would prefer to receive their radiology results through an online portal instead of through traditional notification methods like phone calls or in-person consultations. CMIO.

R.I., U.S. To Split $500M Google Settlement Over Online Pharmacy Ads

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Rhode Island is set to receive about $230 million from a $500 million settlement that Google agreed to pay over claims that it let illegal online pharmacies display Web advertisements. The remaining settlement funds will go to federal authorities. Boston Globe, AP/USA Today.

More Clinicians Using Social Media Tools To Find Job Opportunities

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report by staffing and recruitment firm AMN Healthcare finds that nearly one-third of surveyed health care providers used social media tools to search for a job in 2011, compared with about one-fifth of respondents in 2010. Healthcare IT News, Cincinnati Business Courier.

Study: Credentialed Online Pharmacies Sell Authentic Rx Drugs

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a National Bureau of Economic Research study, online pharmacies with credentials from certain organizations sell authentic prescription drugs. However, researchers found that some unverified websites sold fake products. Wall Street Journal's "Health Blog."

Government Launches Research Initiative To Harness 'Big Data'

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, the Obama administration announced the "Big Data Research and Development Initiative," which aims to analyze massive amounts of data for scientific discovery, biomedical research and other purposes. Six federal agencies -- including the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation -- have committed $200 million to the effort. New York Times, National Journal.

Amazon Web Services Creates Database of Genetic Information

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new database developed by Amazon Web Services -- Amazon's cloud-computing arm -- aims to facilitate access to data from NIH's 1000 Genomes Project. AWS is incurring the costs of storing the 200 terabytes of data from the genome project. New York Times' "Bits."

Panel Seeks Input on Ethical, Privacy Issues in Genomics Research

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues has posted a notice in the Federal Register requesting public comments on various ethical issues involved in the large-scale collection of genome data, such as patient privacy and data access rights. Modern Healthcare.

Defamation Case Raises Questions About Online Criticism of Physicians

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Minnesota lawsuit is raising questions about how doctors should respond to people who criticize them online. The case, which is before the state supreme court, argues that a patient's son distorted facts in online complaints about a neurologist. Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Parents of Children With Cancer Distrust Online Health Info, Study Says

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study scheduled to be published in the journal Sociology of Health and Illness finds that parents of children with cancer try to avoid online health information. Researchers say parents might distrust or be afraid of information on the "worst-case scenario" for their child's condition. United Press International.

Study: Few States Make Surgical-Site Infection Data Available Online

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that only 21 states require public reporting of surgical-site infection rates and only eight of those states make the data readily accessible online. The researchers recommend the creation of national standards for public reporting of SSI rates. HealthLeaders Media et al.

Medical Boards Hearing Complaints of Physician Misconduct Online

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that most state medical boards have received complaints about physicians engaging in inappropriate conduct online. Many of the boards have taken disciplinary action against the doctors. Modern Healthcare et al.

HHS Contest Seeks Apps That Track Health Issues Via Twitter

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS' Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response launched a contest inviting software developers to design a Web application that would use open-source Twitter data to monitor real-time health trends in specific geographic regions. The application would need to be able to deliver the data to public health agencies. Government Health IT, HHS release.

Study: How Information Is Presented Online Can Affect Self-Diagnoses

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study published in the journal Psychological Science finds that the way in which medical information is presented online, particularly the order in which symptoms are listed, can affect how patients self-diagnose for a specific medical condition. Newsroom America et al.

Probe: Mass. Omitting, Removing Data From Online Doctor Profiles

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An investigation conducted by the Northeastern University Initiative for Investigative Reporting finds that Massachusetts' medical board routinely removes or omits disciplinary records, malpractice allegations and other information from its online public physician database. Boston Globe.

Health Organizations Offer Brochures Aiming To Boost Usage of PHRs

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Eight health care organizations have developed informational brochures to encourage the use of personal health records among health care providers and patients. The brochures describe the benefits of PHRs and also provide user testimonials. Modern Healthcare et al.

Column: Few Patients Post Online Reviews of Health Care Providers

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to New York Times columnist Ron Lieber, few consumers post online reviews of their health care experiences. Lieber offers several possible explanations for the trend, including that some patients might idolize their physicians or fear retaliation. New York Times.

White House Names Todd Park as New Chief Technology Officer

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, the White House announced that President Obama will appoint HHS Chief Technology Officer Todd Park to serve as the country's second CTO. Park replaces Aneesh Chopra, who stepped down from the post in January. Prior to joining HHS, Park co-founded health IT firm athenahealth and worked at Booz Allen & Hamilton. Modern Healthcare, "White House Blog."

Study Finds More Work Needed To Boost Patient Control of Health Data

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study published in the journal Health Affairs finds that health care organizations could do more to educate consumers and help them take control of their health data. The study features case studies of five California-based health care organizations. Modern Healthcare et al.

Computer Error Creates Payment Issues for Maine Medicaid Program

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Maine likely will need to refund the federal government after a computer error caused MaineCare, the state's Medicaid program, to continue paying out benefits to about 19,000 residents who had become ineligible for the program. Portland Press Herald, Bangor Daily News.

Study Links Online App to Enrollment Jump for Calif. Health Program

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study credits Health-e-App, an online application tool, with boosting enrollment in California's Healthy Families program. Use of the online tool was associated with a 14% increase in total Healthy Families applications from 2010 to 2011. Sacramento Business Journal.

Commentary Stumps for Incorporating Patient-Reported Data in EHRs

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Health Affairs commentary and analysis article recommends that health care providers include patients' self-reported health data in their electronic health records. The authors write that such efforts could increase patients' engagement in their care. FierceEMR, Health Affairs.

Study: Hospital Quality Reporting Site Did Not Affect Mortality Rates

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that requiring hospitals to post data to a CMS website did not affect 30-day mortality rates for heart attack or pneumonia. The study suggests that consumers did not use the site to identify higher-quality hospitals. Modern Healthcare et al.

NIH Officially Launches Registry To House Genetic Testing Data

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, NIH launched its Genetic Testing Registry to serve as a centralized public resource for information about the availability and scientific basis of numerous genetic tests. However, a consumer advocacy group has expressed concern that the new registry lacks sufficient oversight to ensure the accuracy of its data. New Scientist, Nature's "Nature News Blog."

Social Media Offers New Recruitment Strategy for Clinical Trials

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers increasingly are turning to social media to overcome the challenge of recruiting participants for clinical studies. Online patient communities, Facebook and other tools can help trial organizers promote their studies and maintain a pool of potential participants.

ONC, HHS Officials Announce Winners of Health App Contests

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT and Health 2.0 have named the winners of a contest for apps based on the popHealth framework. HHS also named the winners of a contest for Facebook apps on disaster preparedness. Modern Healthcare et al.

HIMSS12: Officials Stump for Open Data, Consumer Health Tools

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

HHS Chief Technology Officer Todd Park touted the potential of open data to drive innovation to improve health and the health care system. Meanwhile, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin discussed how information and technology tools can "bring health to where people are."

HIMSS12: Data Will Be Driver of Health Care Change

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As part of HIMSS12, health care CIOs and information management executives heard from experts about how data can transform health care. Speakers at the 2012 CIO Forum also discussed how social media tools can help address an overabundance of health information.

Study: Online Patient Ratings Correlate With Better Hospital Care

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study from the United Kingdom finds a correlation between positive Web-based patient ratings and hospital performance. According to the study, the best-rated hospitals had lower rates of mortality, readmission and certain infections than the worst-rated hospitals. CMIO et al.

Which Patient Groups Are Using Digital Resources From Pharmaceutical Firms?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Among online consumers surveyed by patient segment, 72% percent of patients with attention deficit hyperactivity or attention deficit disorder, 70% of patients with bipolar disorder and 65% of patients with migraines use digital resources from pharmaceutical companies, according to a Manhattan Research survey.

Study: Texts Can Boost Prenatal, Postnatal Care for Pregnant Women

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study finds that sending text messages about childbirth preparation to pregnant women can improve prenatal and postnatal care. Researchers say texting could be a low-cost way to engage pregnant women in their care. FierceMobileHealthcare, Partners HealthCare release.

Column: Online Patient Communities Can Offer Support, Boost Research

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a Forbes column, David Shaywitz -- an adjunct scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and Forbes contributor -- writes that online communities can help patients by providing social support and by potentially advancing research when they sell the data they collect. Forbes.

NIH Launches Website To Boost Knowledge About Clinical Trials

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

NIH has created a new website designed to encourage more people to participate in clinical trials by providing resources for locating such trials. The site also contains educational materials to help physicians talk to patients about clinical trials. Modern Healthcare et al.

Hospitals Mine Patient Data To Create Tailored Marketing Campaigns

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospitals increasingly are using patient data to create targeted mailings that market specialty services, such as cancer, cardiac and orthopedic care. One expert says the trend likely will accelerate as hospitals deploy electronic health records. Kaiser Health News/USA Today.

HHS Aims To Streamline Regulations on Patient Data Access, Telehealth

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

HHS has released a progress report on its efforts to reduce regulatory burdens. The agency said it is working to boost efficiency through rules that would improve patient access to test results and ease requirements for telehealth providers. AHA News, FierceHealthIT.

Calif. Officials Seek To Educate Residents With Long-Term Care Website

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California officials are directing residents to a website that explains the benefits of long-term care plans and provides details on available policies. Many adults do not purchase long-term care insurance because of the cost or because they do not think they need it. HealthyCal.

Startups Aim To Help Patients Search Medical Adverse Event Reports

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

AdverseEvents and Clarimed recently launched online databases with adverse event information from prescription drugs and medical devices. The companies hope the databases will empower patients to use the Internet to look up medical information. Wall Street Journal.

Online Kidney Donor Screening Programs Increase Efficiency

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During a recent symposium, researchers discussed how the University of California-San Francisco and Vanderbilt University used Web-based tools to boost the efficiency of screening potential kidney donors and attract more donor applicants. Renal & Urology News.

Barriers Continue To Limit Patient Access to Electronic Health Data

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Giving patients electronic access to their health data could improve the quality and coordination of care, as well as reduce health care spending. Despite increasing patient demand for such access, barriers such as cost and physician resistance have limited progress.

Federal Sting Led to Case Against Google for Allowing Illegal Rx Ads

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New details have emerged about an undercover operation that the federal government used to gather evidence that Google allowed illegal pharmacies to display Web advertisements. Google paid $500 million to settle the allegations in August 2011. Wall Street Journal, Ars Technica.

Comparing U.S. Hospitals and Health Systems' Website Quality

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As more and more consumers turn to the Internet when making decisions about their health care, Web presence is becoming increasingly important. A new study evaluates U.S. hospital and health system websites and identifies the top-performing facilities.

Large Insurers Invest in Mobile Health Apps To Boost Patient Wellness

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Large health insurance companies are investing in mobile health applications to assess patient wellness and connect patients with physicians. Aetna, UnitedHealth Group and WellPoint all have made recent investments in mobile health apps. American Medical News.

Study Questions Efficacy of Online Patient Portals Containing Health Data

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Only about 25% of patients who were given access to an online portal with information on colorectal cancer screening actually logged on to the site, according to a new study. The findings raise questions about the efficacy of certain Web-based interventions. FierceHealthIT.

Editorial, Opinion Piece Face Off Over Database on Doctor-Industry Ties

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A New York Times editorial praises the federal government's plans for an online database to disclose physicians' financial ties to drugmakers and medical device firms, while a Wall Street Journal opinion piece criticizes the planned database. New York Times, Wall Street Journal.

Experts Debate Doctor-Patient Emailing, Use of Universal Patient IDs

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a recent Wall Street Journal special section on health care, experts offered opposing opinions on various issues, such as whether physicians should email with their patients and whether the U.S. should implement universal patient identifier numbers. Wall Street Journal.

OPM To Expand 'Blue Button' PHR Tool to Federal Workers

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of Personnel Management has asked all health insurers participating in the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program to add the "Blue Button" function to their personal health record platforms. The move will allow millions of federal employees, retirees and their families to use the Blue Button tool to view and download their personal health data. Federal Computer Week et al.

Experts: Greater Access to Medical Data Could Bolster Health Research

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to experts, access to large volumes of personal health data could transform medical research. Mobile health applications, wearable sensors and other tools could collect such data from healthy individuals and those with medical conditions. Wall Street Journal.

DOD's Telehealth Center Launches Website for Kids in Military Families

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Department of Defense's National Center for Telehealth and Technology has launched a website to help children of deployed military personnel cope with stress. The site provides educational videos and forums to help children share their experiences. Modern Healthcare.

Do Online Adults Think Pharmaceutical Firms Should Participate in Online Health Forums?

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Forty-two percent of online adults agree that pharmaceutical companies should take part in consumer-focused online health communities, compared with 39% who have no opinion on the issue and 19% who disagree that pharmaceutical companies should be involved in such arenas, according to a Manhattan Research survey.

CMS Accepting Input on Effort To Publicly Post Provider-Industry Ties

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Drugmakers and medical device manufacturers have one month to comment on a proposed rule that would require them to disclose all financial ties with physicians and hospitals. The federal government then would post the data to a public website. MedPage Today, New York Times.

Study: Most Online Diabetes Management Tools Ineffective

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that most Web-based tools for diabetes management have at least three usability errors, and only one-quarter of the tools provide useful information most of the time. Researchers recommend further study to improve the usefulness of such tools and to create standard website quality indicators. CMIO.

UnitedHealth Group Forms Partnerships With Mobile Health Firms

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

UnitedHealth Group has announced partnerships with three companies that offer mobile health applications. The apps that the organizations provide help users manage weight, record medication information and track fitness-related data. Twin Cities Business, MedCity News.

Stakeholders Respond to Federal Proposal To Give Patients Full Access to Their Lab Results

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Kate Christensen of Kaiser Permanente, Jason DuBois of the American Clinical Laboratory Association, Lawrence Hughes of the American Hospital Association and Eva Powell of the National Partnership for Women & Families spoke with iHealthBeat about a new federal proposal to give patients full access to their laboratory results.

Researchers Tap Google, Twitter To Help Track Disease Outbreaks

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study by researchers at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine finds that the Google Flu Trends website can help researchers predict when emergency departments will see a surge in influenza cases. In a separate study, researchers from Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School used Twitter and other informal media to track Haiti's cholera outbreak. Time's "Healthland" et al.

UCSF Researchers Create Online Tools To Assess Older Patients' Prognosis

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

University of California-San Francisco researchers have developed online tools to evaluate the likelihood that an older patient will die within a certain time frame. The tools aim to help doctors assess whether a patient should consider hospice care or other options. New York Times.

What Effects Do PCPs Think Giving Patients Electronic Access to Doctor Notes Would Have?

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sixty-two percent of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center primary care physicians, 58% of Geisinger Health System PCPs and 36% of Harborview Medical Center PCPs participating in a program that gives patients electronic access to doctor notes believe it would help their practice deliver safer care, according to a new survey published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Mostashari Discusses Challenges Facing ONC, Data Privacy Protection

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an interview with HealthLeaders Media, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari discussed the challenges that the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT will face in 2012, as well as efforts to protect the privacy of patient data. HealthLeaders Media.

Physicians Take Steps To Shield Reputations From Online Patient Criticism

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Many physicians are taking steps to protect their reputations online amid the prevalence of websites that allow patients to post negative reviews. Some doctors are soliciting positive feedback from patients and hiring online reputation companies. Philadelphia Inquirer.

ONC Launches Video Challenge To Engage Consumers in Health IT

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT is inviting consumers to submit videos on how they plan to use health IT tools -- such as online patient portals -- to accomplish their health-related New Year's resolutions. Modern Healthcare, Healthcare Informatics.

Mostashari Offers List of Top 10 Health IT Developments in 2011

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a "Health IT Buzz" blog post, National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari describes the top 10 most notable health IT developments in 2011. His top developments include an increase in the number of certified electronic health record products and the expansion of health IT workforce training programs. Becker's Hospital Review, Health Data Management.

Studies: Researchers Fail To Report Clinical Trial Data to Federal Website

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to a series of studies published in the British Medical Journal, many researchers fail to report clinical trial results to an NIH website within 12 months as required by FDA. An editorial accompanying the studies calls for tighter enforcement of the requirement. Reuters et al.

FDA Issues Guidance on Using Social Media to Discuss Drugs, Devices

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA has released draft guidelines on how drug companies and medical device makers can use social media tools to answer consumer questions about off-label uses of their products. FDA is accepting comment on the draft guidance until March 26. Fierce Government IT et al.

VA Announces Launch of Facebook Pages for all 152 Medical Centers

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that all of its 152 medical centers now have Facebook pages. VA officials say that they plan to continue expanding the agency's Facebook presence and set up Twitter feeds for all VA medical centers. Healthcare IT News, VA release.

What Percentage of My HealtheVet Users Would Share PHR Elements With a Spouse or Partner?

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Two-thirds of users of the Department of Veterans Affairs' My HealtheVet personal health record system said they would share all components of their PHR with their spouse or partner, while 73% said they would share their medication list, according to an Annals of Internal Medicine study.

Patients Want To Access, Share Their Health Data, Studies Find

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new Annals of Internal Medicine study finds that most patients were enthusiastic about the launch of a system that would allow them to access their physician's notes. According to another study in the same journal, most patients who use the Department of Veterans Affairs' personal health record tool want the ability to share that data with at least one other person. Reuters at al.

Tobacco Firms Agree To Release Documents for Public Online Database

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Philip Morris USA and R.J. Reynolds Tobacco have agreed to provide public access to internal industry documents through an online database. As part of the agreement, the tobacco companies will pay $6.25 million into a court fund to support the Web-based collection. United Press International et al.

CMS Moves Toward Creation of Financial Disclosure Database

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, CMS released a proposed rule outlining how drugmakers and medical device makers must report gifts and other payments to physicians and teaching hospitals as required by the federal health reform law's Physician Payment Sunshine Act. CMS said it plans to post the financial disclosure information to a public website that will be easily searchable. Reuters et al.

'Freeing' Data May Be Tricky in California

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The "Free the Data" movement, a national effort to encourage innovation in health care, has sparked a similar campaign to make California health data more easily available. But state laws and regulations may require some extra effort in the Golden State, experts say.