iHealthBeat: Global Health

U.S. Olympic Committee To Use EHR Tools During London 2012 Games

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the U.S. Olympic Committee said it will deploy GE's electronic health record system to manage care for athletes, staff and volunteers at the Summer 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games. USOC plans to continue its partnership with GE for future games. eWeek et al.

U.S., Mexico To Adopt Guidelines for Sharing Public Health Data

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS announced that the U.S. and Mexico have agreed to adopt technical guidelines on sharing information for various public health activities. Mexico also has become the fourth country to join CDC's international Laboratory Response Network. Modern Healthcare, Examiner.

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.

Researchers Examining Use of Mobile Tools for Improving Global Health

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to researchers, mobile technology could help improve access to health care for people living in remote regions of developing countries. However, they note that certain barriers are hindering the widespread implementation of mobile health initiatives. New York Times.

Health IT Supporting Programs in Developing Countries, Report Finds

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Many health programs in low- and middle-income countries are using health IT to improve communications and access to care, according to a Results for Development Institute report published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization. FierceHealthIT, R4D release.

Online Crowdsourcing Game Could Improve Diagnosis of Malaria

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of California-Los Angeles have created an online game that trains players to identify malaria-infected red blood cells. The game is designed to use crowdsourcing techniques to help improve malaria diagnoses. Healthcare IT News, Computerworld.

HIMSS Plans To Launch Tool To Measure EHR Adoption Levels in U.K.

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Healthcare Information Management Systems Society and the United Kingdom's IT trade group BCS plan to introduce the HIMSS Analytics Electronic Medical Records Adoption Model to measure electronic health record adoption at U.K. hospitals. Healthcare IT News, CMIO.

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.

Certain International Health IT Markets Still Emerging, Report Says

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A KLAS Enterprises report finds that Asia, the Middle East and the United Kingdom represent emerging health IT markets. The report notes that without government incentives, health IT adoption has been slow for most countries outside the U.S. Modern Healthcare, KLAS release.

Smartphones Could Aid Disease Surveillance in Developing Countries

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent CDC study finds that smartphones could offer a lower-cost and more accurate way of collecting disease surveillance data in developing countries than paper-based methods. Researchers presented the findings at a CDC conference in Atlanta. Modern Healthcare et al.

CSC Reaches Tentative Deal With U.K. Health System for EHR Project

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Computer Sciences Corporation has signed a nonbinding letter of intent with the United Kingdom's National Health Service on plans to advance an electronic health record project. The deal comes after NHS halted plans for its national health IT project. Wall Street Journal et al.

Report: Mobile Health Tools Could Cut Costs, Improve Care Globally

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report by the Boston Consulting Group and Telenor Group predicts that mobile health tools could improve health care worldwide by reducing elder care costs, boosting medication adherence and improving health care access for patients in rural areas. eWeek et al.

U.S. Ahead of Other Countries in Physician Health IT Adoption

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An eight-country study released today by Accenture finds that the U.S. is a leader in several areas of physician health IT adoption. For example, the study found that 54% of U.S. primary care physicians sent prescriptions electronically, compared with a global average of just 20%. Modern Healthcare, Accenture release.

U.K. Should Learn From VA's Experiences With Telehealth, Report Says

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report by 2020health calls for the United Kingdom's National Health Service to establish a telehealth system that builds on the experiences of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The report calls VA "the world's No. 1 provider of telehealth at scale." Modern Healthcare.

Hospitals in Western Europe Spent $3.2B on Health IT in 2010

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report says that Western European hospitals spent about $3.2 billion on health IT in 2010, though the types of tools used ranged widely. According to the report, the United Kingdom spent $221.3 million on health IT, while Spain spent $25.3 million. FierceHealthIT, CMIO.

U.S. Doctors Less Likely Than Global Peers To Cite Benefits of Health IT

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An Accenture survey finds that U.S. physicians are less likely than doctors from other nations to report benefits of using health IT. Forty-five percent of U.S. doctors said health IT would improve diagnostic decisions, compared with the survey average of 61%. Healthcare IT News.

Canadian Researchers Develop Portable Device for Remote HIV Testing

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Canadian researchers have developed a portable device that can analyze blood samples and generate test results within minutes. The device potentially could help health care providers monitor HIV-positive patients in remote areas of the world. Postmedia News/Vancouver Sun.

Telehealth Can Reduce Patient Mortality Risk, U.K. Study Finds

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Telehealth technologies that allow physicians to remotely manage their patients' health care needs can cut patient mortality by up to 45%, according to a recent study conducted by the United Kingdom's Department of Health. The study also notes that the use of remote monitoring tools can reduce emergency department visits and hospital admissions. Becker's Hospital Review et al.

Study: U.S. Could Boost Outcomes, Lower Costs With Disease Registries

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that the U.S. could improve patient outcomes and lower health care costs if it followed the lead of other countries and ramped up its implementation of clinical disease registries. United Press International, Boston Consulting Group release.

Report: U.K.'s NHS Faces Nearly Five Breaches of Patient Data Per Week

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The United Kingdom's National Health Service experiences a patient data breach about five times per week, according to a report from Big Brother Watch. The report identifies 806 separate breaches that occurred between 2008 and 2011. UK Press Association/Google News et al.

Experts Say Challenges to Global Adoption of Mobile Health IT Persist

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Experts at the annual Connected Health Symposium discussed several challenges to broad implementation of mobile health tools around the world. Some of the hurdles include poverty and limited communication infrastructure in African and Asian nations. InformationWeek et al.

Expanding Telehealth in Scotland Could Curb Costs, Report Says

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A report by Audit Scotland urges the National Health Service to consider expanding the use of telehealth in Scotland as a way to control rising costs and address the growing demand for health care services. The report says three projects aim to offer more evidence of the benefits of telehealth. BBC News et al.

Text Messaging-Based Health Care Campaigns Encounter Challenges

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Many organizations run text messaging campaigns to promote healthy behaviors in communities across the world. However, such initiatives face challenges in reaching people from different cultures and operating in areas without electricity. PBS' "NewsHour."

CSC Sued Over Problems With U.K.'s National EHR Program

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A group of shareholders have filed a lawsuit against Computer Sciences Corporation, alleging that the contractor misled the public about its ability to build a software platform for the United Kingdom's recently scrapped national health IT network. CSC is expected to file a court response to the lawsuit in the next few weeks. InformationWeek, Computerworld UK.

AHIMA Keynote Speaker Urges Providers To Push Forward on ICD-10 Shift

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

T. Bedirhan Ustun, an official with the World Health Organization, delivered a keynote address at the American Health Information Management Association conference and urged health care organizations to move forward with the transition to ICD-10 medical code sets. CMIO et al.

Australian Researchers Developing Software for Testing of Ear Implants

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the Ear Science Institute of Australia are working to develop telehealth software that can help test ear implants. Patients would connect their implants to a computer so audiologists can check the devices over the Internet. Electronics News et al.

Project To Offer Mobile Tools to Health Workers in Underserved Areas

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Physicians Interactive Holdings and the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights have launched Health eVillages, which aims to provide mobile devices loaded with medical reference tools to health workers in underserved areas of the world. MobiHealthNews et al.

U.K. Health Service To Dismantle Nationwide Health IT Program

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, United Kingdom officials announced plans to dismantle a nationwide health IT project. The move comes after a parliamentary report found that the U.K. Department of Health lacked the capacity to implement the IT project. Officials said that future health IT decisions will be made at the regional level and that more vendors will compete for contracts. Wall Street Journal et al.

U.K. Health System Expected To Abandon E-Health Network

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The United Kingdom is expected to scrap plans for a centralized electronic health record network that has come under fire for poor leadership and wasted funds. A new parliamentary report concludes that the National Health Service should halt the program and give local officials more control over implementing health IT systems. London Independent et al.

Canadian Innovators Camp Helps Teens Delve Into Health IT Issues

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, about 25 high school students attended the eHealth Young Innovators Summer Camp, a week-long program run by the University of British Columbia that gives participants the opportunity to explore how technology can interact with health care. Toronto Globe and Mail.

Groups Urge HHS To Reconsider Rule on Health Data Disclosures

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The American Health Information Management Association and the Medical Group Management Association have sent letters calling for HHS to revisit a proposed rule that would expand patients' rights to obtain a list of those who have accessed their electronic health data. The associations said the proposed requirement would be overly burdensome for health care providers. CMIO et al.

Brazilian Researchers Using Twitter To Track Dengue Fever Outbreaks

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A team of Brazilian researchers has developed and tested new software that uses Twitter to track dengue fever outbreaks in the country. The software analyzes tweets and pinpoints those containing the word "dengue" and information about the user's location. New Scientist.

Final Launch in NASA's Shuttle Program Will Transport Health Tool

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

NASA's space shuttle Atlantis is expected to launch this Friday carrying a cardiovascular ultrasound system that will monitor astronauts' general health and support health-related experiments. The tool could have implications for mobile health technology. MobiHealthNews.

What Are the Least Adopted Mobile Health Initiatives Being Used Around the World?

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The least adopted mobile health initiatives among surveyed member states of the World Health Organization are health surveys and surveillance at 26%, followed by raising public awareness at 23% and decision support systems at 19%, according to a recent study released by the organization.

Report: Telehealth a Possible Solution to Health Care Challenges

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new report says telehealth can help health care providers overcome issues tied to access, quality and the high costs of care. The report outlines common telehealth barriers and offers recommendations to overcome them. NextGov's "Health IT Update," CMIO.

WHO Report Calls U.K. a Leader in Mobile Health Care Industry Initiatives

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A World Health Organization survey of 114 countries concludes that the United Kingdom is a leader in the field of mobile health care. The U.K. runs a no-cost health care call center in England and Scotland and sends out text message reminders for clinic visits. E-Health Insider.

Mobile Phones Improve Diabetes Care in Rural Locations, Study Finds

Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Telehealth technology can improve diabetes care for patients living in underdeveloped, remote locations, according to a Veterans Administration and University of Michigan study. Nearly all study participants said such services improved management of the disease. Medscape.

Audit Slams British EHR Program for Being Largely Unsuccessful

Wed, 18 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, the United Kingdom's National Audit Office released a report finding that the country's electronic health record implementation project has wasted billions of pounds, has been ineffective and requires an urgent reassessment. Wall Street Journal et al.

Survey: Hospital CIOs Worldwide Plan Increase in Health IT Spending

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A global survey conducted by British research firm Ovum finds that 42% of hospital CIOs plan to increase health IT spending this year. Electronic health record and digital imaging systems are among the top spending priorities for CIOs. InformationWeek, Financial Post.

Global Program To Use Cell Phones To Deliver Maternal Health Tips

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Agency for International Development and Johnson & Johnson have launched the Mobile Alliance for Maternal Action, which will use mobile phones to deliver health information to new mothers and pregnant women worldwide. Federal Computer Week et al.

Health Care Leaders Worldwide Express Support for Telehealth

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Health care leaders from 16 countries support the use of telehealth technology to transform the health care industry, according to a new survey released Wednesday at the World Health Care Congress in Washington, D.C. Survey respondents view collaboration as a driving force in health care delivery. In addition, the majority of respondents back the use of information and communication technologies. Healthcare IT News.

E-Health Records Can Boost Care in Developing Countries, Study Finds

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new study concludes that computer-generated reminders from electronic health record systems helped Kenyan clinics boost adherence to clinical guidelines. Researchers say the study shows that EHRs can improve care in developing countries with limited resources. International Business Times.

World Economic Forum Launches Global Health Data Charter in Geneva

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

During last week's World Economic Forum in Switzerland, officials launched the Global Health Data Charter. The effort calls on organizations to improve access to health data in developed and developing countries that lack sufficient health information resources. InformationWeek.

Study Outlines Risks of Posting Online Photos of Medical Work Abroad

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers contend that U.S. health care providers who do medical volunteer work abroad could violate ethical standards for patient privacy if they post patient photos online. HIPAA privacy and security rules do not apply to patients outside the U.S. HealthLeaders Media.

Canada Invests $380M To Help Doctors Adopt, Expand EHR Systems

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The not-for-profit, government-run Canada Health Infoway is investing $380 million to support implementation of electronic health record systems throughout Canada. The funding is part of $500 million in funding allocated in the nation's 2010 budget plan. Healthcare IT News.

Emerging Markets Gain Ground in Medical Tech Innovations, Report Says

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The U.S. is falling behind as a center for medical technology innovation to emerging-market countries, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers report. The report provides five innovation measurements and says the U.S. is losing ground on each. Wall Street Journal's "Health Blog."

Healthy Communities Initiative Aims To Boost Adoption of Health IT

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The World Health Imaging, Telemedicine & Informatics Alliance is beginning an initiative to bring health IT tools to community health centers in rural and urban areas. WHITIA is a global not-for-profit organization that aims to help deliver health IT to areas with limited resources. Healthcare IT News.

European Commission, HHS Sign Memorandum To Promote Health IT

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and European Commission Vice President Neelie Kroes have signed a memorandum of understanding that aims to promote a common approach to health IT. The MOU also aims to increase the presence of European services in the U.S. Computing UK et al.

China Announces Start of Largest Telehealth Project in the World

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A Toronto-based mobile health care company and a Chinese drugmaker are launching the largest telehealth project in the world. The initiative will enroll about 100,000 patients in China's Shandong Province and is expected to expand throughout the country. E-Health Europe.

State Department Aims To Install EHRs in Health Units Worldwide

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The Department of State recently published an announcement about its plans to deploy an electronic health record system in health units at embassies and consulates in 170 countries. The department is requesting information from EHR vendors about features and functionalities of commercial ambulatory EHRs that could meet the agency's needs. Government Health IT.

Speakers at Summit on Mobile Health Address Advances, Concerns

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Mobile health technology experts and government health officials attending the 2010 mHealth Summit discussed advancements and barriers in the field. Speakers included U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra and Microsoft founder Bill Gates. Healthcare IT News et al.

Indian IT Firms Eye New Business as U.S. Pushes Health IT Adoption

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Indian technology companies are preparing for new business as more U.S. hospitals and physicians make the switch to electronic health records. However, some health providers say they have concerns about sending patient information overseas. Wall Street Journal.

Blumenthal Says U.S. Health Care Providers Lagging in IT Adoption

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, National Coordinator for Health IT David Blumenthal said that the U.S. faces several challenges to making health IT adoption more widespread and that the country is well behind other nations in implementing health IT systems. MedPage Today, Modern Healthcare.

Government Officials in Manitoba, Canada, Offer Subsidy for EHR Switch

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Health care providers in the Manitoba province of Canada are being offered a government subsidy that pays up to 70% of the cost of implementing electronic health records. Funds come from the Canada Health Infoway, a national program to boost EHR use. Winnipeg Free Press, Winnipeg Sun.

U.K.'s National Health Service Gives Patients More Access to EHRs

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The United Kingdom's National Health Service will allow patients to access their electronic health records online, according to new proposals. British officials are seeking to give individuals more control over their health care choices and their personal health data. Computerworld UK et al.

Canada Launches Data Exchange To Focus on Chronic Disease Care

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Canadian health groups have launched an electronic health data exchange designed to provide officials with chronic disease information. Officials in turn will give feedback to physicians. CBC News, Postmedia News/Montreal Gazette.

U.K. EHR Program Will Limit Data Regulations, Ease Opt-Out Procedure

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The United Kingdom's Department of Health will make changes to its electronic health record system to address public concerns. The changes scale back the amount of information required for each record and provide patients with opt-out forms. Computerworld UK et al.

Global Health Officials at U.N. Summit Call for Broader Health IT Use

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Global health officials at the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals summit called on IT providers to expand development of mobile health tools for countries and to boost medical education and delivery of health data to health care providers. Modern Healthcare.

U.K.'s NHS To Reduce Health IT Spending, Restructure Program

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The United Kingdom's National Health Service has announced plans to reduce health IT spending by 700 million pounds, or about $1.1 billion, as part of an effort to provide local hospitals with more control over which health IT systems they adopt. BBC News et al.

British Websites Offer Consults, Medications Without Doctor Meeting

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A growing number of British websites are offering physician consultations and medication without requiring patients to meet with doctors in person or speak to them via phone or webcam. Some experts believe the trend will spread to other countries. AP/Washington Post.

Oklahoma Specialists Deliver Consultations to Iraq Using Satellite

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Specialists at Oklahoma State University are providing weekly consultations to physicians at the second largest hospital in Iraq. Doctors at the facility in Iraq have the capability to transmit patient medical information to OSU. Tulsa World, KFSM.

Standards Organization Seeks To Boost Health Literacy Worldwide

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The World Health Organization is working with a health terminology standards group in an effort to improve the accuracy and reliability of health care classification systems. The plan involves the use of electronic health records. Healthcare IT News, E-Health Europe.

Robot Designed To Help Patients Combat Obesity Via Weight-Loss Plans

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Intuitive Automata, a Hong Kong-based technology company, has developed a robot designed to help individuals lose weight and prevent chronic conditions. The product interacts with individuals to help them track nutritional goals and is set for launch in the U.S. next year. Wall Street Journal.

Physicians Say British EHR Database Rife With Inaccuracies, Problems

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

British physicians report that 10% of electronic health records uploaded to the country's national database are inaccurate. The U.K. medical association has urged the government to stop using the system. London Daily Telegraph, London Daily Mail.

Health IT Firms Venture Into European Market With New Offerings

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Microsoft recently established UK HealthVault, a version of its personal health record platform, while HIMSS Analytics launched HIMSS Analytics Europe to provide health IT resources and services to European organizations and governments. Health Data Management et al.

Report: Millions of U.K. Residents Unaware of Online EHR Postings

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

British researchers recently released a report finding that millions of patients in the United Kingdom likely are unaware that their medical records are being uploaded to the National Health Service's online Summary Care Record database. London Telegraph et al.

TELUS, Microsoft Begin Pilot Project for PHR Platform in Canada

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

About 750 employees of the Canadian telecommunications firm TELUS will be the first to test an online personal health record platform that uses Microsoft's HealthVault. Officials aim to make the system widely available by the end of the year. CNS/National Post.

European Commission Proposes Major Investments in Health IT

Fri, 28 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The European Commission has proposed large-scale health IT investments to help the European Union's 27 member states tackle rising health care costs and an aging population. The EC's "Digital Agenda" calls for giving European residents online access to their health data by 2015 and widespread deployment of telemedicine services by 2020. E-Health Europe, Government Health IT.

North Korea Teams Up With WHO To Launch Telemedicine Network

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Today, North Korea launched a medical videoconferencing network that connects smaller, rural medical facilities with specialists in the capital. The World Health Organization is providing cameras, computers and other equipment for the telemedicine system. AP/San Jose Mercury News.

U.K. Officials Announce Partial Suspension of EHR Database Project

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT

United Kingdom health officials have halted some pilot projects that were part of an effort to upload electronic health records to a national database. Some physician groups had raised concerns about privacy and security risks in the EHR project. BBC News, Daily Telegraph.

Concerns Raised Over U.K. Sending Patient Health Data to India

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Privacy advocates are concerned about revelations that the United Kingdom's National Health Service is sending health records to India for transcribing. NHS says that the data are anonymous and that the Indian firm is complying with data protection laws. Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph.

Report Finds Errors, Omissions in U.K.'s National EHR Database

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A report scheduled for publication next month has identified inaccuracies and omissions in patient data contained in the United Kingdom's new Summary Care Records database. Researchers from University College London suggest that physicians uploading the electronic health data could be partially responsible for the errors. ComputerWeekly.

British Medical Group Calls for NHS To Halt EHR Database Project

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT

In a letter to U.K. officials, the British Medical Association said the National Health Service is uploading health records to a central database too quickly and often without patient consent. BMA is calling for the government to suspend elements of the program. Daily Telegraph, BBC News.

UpToDate, Harvard Aim To Provide Medical Info to Remote Physicians

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT

UpToDate, a medical information company, is working with Harvard's Global Health Delivery Project to provide better access to digital medical information for physicians working in remote areas of developing countries. Boston Globe.

Developing Countries See Promise in E-Health; Challenges Remain

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Many developing countries are investing in e-health to help increase access, improve affordability and boost quality of care. However, challenges, such as a lack of interoperability, an inadequate health informatics work force and the need for more evidence of benefits, remain.

Canadian Province To Ratchet Up Scrutiny of Regional EHR Project

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A new auditor report suggests that the Canadian province of British Columbia made several missteps when planning an electronic health record project. The auditor called for the government to submit regular progress reports. Victoria Times Colonist, Canadian Press/Globe and Mail.

Australian Government To Mandate Electronic Health ID Numbers

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Australia recently announced that it will issue unique electronic health ID numbers to all residents, despite an earlier government pledge that the country's new electronic health system would be optional for residents. E Health Europe.

U.S. Turns to Telehealth Tools To Deliver Health Care to Haiti Residents

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

U.S. physicians plan to use telemedicine technology to help deliver health care to Haiti residents after foreign medical volunteers leave the country. The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the U.S. military’s Southern Command are preparing to launch telemedicine efforts. New York Times.

Start-up Turns to Text Messaging To Let People Question Physicians

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A new start-up firm is hoping to replicate the Twitter model by using text messages to let people ask questions of a large group of physicians. The service, Truth On Call, currently is available to the media, health care industry and financial firms, and will open to patients in the coming months. New York Times' "Bits."

What Percentage of Online Western European Doctors Watch Web Videos for Work Purposes?

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT

In 2009, 46% of online physicians in Western Europe reported watching Web videos for professional purposes, according to a recent survey by Manhattan Research. In 2006, just 28% of physicians with Internet access in Western Europe reported using online videos for professional purposes.

Health IT Tools Facilitate Post-Earthquake Health Care Delivery in Haiti

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Partners in Health's use of health IT has played a key role in delivering health care to Haiti residents after recent earthquakes. The group uses satellite-based Internet communication tools, electronic health records and a Web-based medication supply management tool. Healthcare IT News.

Scotland Making Strides in EHR Implementation Despite NHS Troubles

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Although the United Kingdom's health IT project has been beset by problems since its launch, Scotland has managed to create electronic emergency care summary records for nearly all of its residents. Officials say Scotland's system also maintains high privacy standards. Guardian.

Denmark Far Ahead of United States in Health Care IT Adoption

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Denmark's widespread use of health IT has increased efficiency among health care providers and helped to reduce health care costs. Denmark's small size, homogeneous population and regulated health care system make the country somewhat unique. Still, U.S. policymakers are examining whether Denmark's success with health IT can be replicated in the U.S. New York Times.

U.K.'s Tory Party Says EHRs Will Contribute to New Direction for NHS

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:00:00 GMT

David Cameron, leader of the United Kingdom's Tory Party, said his party will pursue electronic health records as part of its plan for the National Health Service. The proposal does not include details about whether private companies would provide the EHRs. E-Health Insider.

41% of Canadian Clinical Trials Use Electronic Systems, Study Finds

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers found that 41% of Canadian clinical trials no longer solely use paper records to record data. The study found trials that utilized electronic data capture tools were generally more accurate and completed in less time than those that did not. United Press International.

EHR Benefits Take Time To Realize, European Commission Study Finds

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

A new study from the European Commission finds that electronic health record and electronic prescribing systems can offer many benefits, such as improved patient safety and increased efficiency. However, the study notes that realizing such benefits often takes years. E-Health Europe.

Chancellor: NHS Might Scrap Elements of its National EHR Project

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

U.K. Chancellor Alistair Darling has announced that the National Health Service might suspend part of its electronic health record project in order to reduce public spending. Components of the $20.9 billion program already are four years behind schedule. Times, Financial Times.

Do Online European Adults Use the Internet To Find Health and Prescription Drug Information?

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Eighty-five percent of online adults from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy and Spain report using the Internet to find health and prescription drug information. The survey found that Wikipedia is a top online health resource for consumers in the countries surveyed.

What Percentage of Primary Care Physicians Use Electronic Health Records?

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Forty-six percent of U.S. primary care physicians use electronic health records, compared with 97% of primary care physicians in Norway, 96% of primary care physicians in the United Kingdom and 95% of primary care physicians in Australia, according to a new survey from the Commonwealth Fund.

Study: U.S. Lags Behind Many Other Countries in EHR Use

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Today, the Commonwealth Fund released a study finding that about 46% of U.S. physicians use electronic health records, compared with more than 94% of physicians in Australia, Italy, the Netherlands and some other industrialized countries. The study authors recommend that the U.S. government institute financial incentives to spur greater EHR adoption. Healthcare IT News et al.

Mixed Reviews for Canada's National, Regional EHR Projects

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

An auditor recently gave high marks to Canada's national electronic health record project, while acknowledging that there are still some contracting and reporting problems. Meanwhile, Ontario's regional EHR project is under further scrutiny for awarding a contract worth 236 million Canadian dollars, or about $222 million, in the midst of its recent scandal over misspent funds. CP/Winnipeg Free Press et al.

Dutch Firms Partner To Invest in Remote Patient Monitoring Tools

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Medical equipment maker Philips Electronics and Dutch insurer Achmea recently announced plans to invest in health monitoring technologies. Philips said the partnership could serve as a pilot project for a future initiative targeting the broader European market. Reuters.

Jordan Moves Ahead With Deployment of Health IT System

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Jordan's new health IT system has had its public debut, marking the progression of the country's efforts to build a national health information infrastructure on a single software platform. After an 18-month pilot, the system will be deployed at all 43 of the nation's hospitals. E-Health Europe.

Google Expands Flu Tracking Tool to 16 Additional Countries

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Google Flu Trends has been expanded to track influenza in 16 more countries, including Canada, France and Japan. Google's flu tracking tool monitors the number of flu-related queries conducted on the Google search engine and then predicts influenza outbreaks in different regions. E-Health Europe.

Ontario Wasted $1B on E-Health Record Project, Auditor Report Finds

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Ontario's auditor general released a report suggesting that eHealth Ontario misspent about $1 billion during the past six years on health IT projects that were behind schedule and over budget. Several officials resigned amid the controversy. CBC News et al.

What Percentage of Primary Care Physicians Use Electronic Health Record Systems?

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT

A new report from the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation finds that the U.S. lags behind many other developed countries in electronic health record adoption. Twenty-eight percent of U.S. primary care physicians use EHR systems, while Sweden, Finland and the Netherlands have nearly universal use of EHRs among primary care providers.

Denmark Prepares To Expand Two Telehealth Projects Nationwide

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT

For one project, non-Danish-speaking patients use videoconferencing tools and remote translators to communicate their ailments to hospital personnel. The other project allows patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to remain at home and submit their vital signs remotely. E-Health Europe.

IBM Announces Launch of New Telemedicine Pilot Project in Italy

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT

IBM will launch a one-year telemedicine pilot project in Bolzano, Italy. The project aims to improve elderly patients' independence and quality of life, while reducing health care costs. IBM has not yet said whether it plans to replicate the project in the U.S. InformationWeek.

U.S. Trails Other Countries in Health IT Progress, Study Finds

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT

A new study by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation finds that the U.S. is far behind international best practices in health IT adoption. Researchers say the U.S. should look to countries such as Denmark, Finland and Sweden for health IT strategies. Government Technology.

Ethiopia Launches Text Message Campaign To Encourage HIV Testing

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, Ethiopian government officials began advertising no-cost HIV tests by sending text messages to the country's 2.5 million mobile phone users. Ethiopia launched the HIV testing campaign ahead of its upcoming New Year celebrations on Sept. 11. Reuters.