iHealthBeat: Global Health

Report: Natural Language Processing Market To Reach $2.67B by 2020

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 16:06:00 Z

A new report predicts the global market for natural language processing technology will reach $2.67 billion by 2020. According to the report, North America will be the largest market for NLP technologies in the health care and life sciences industries. Healthcare IT News, MarketsandMarkets report.

Site Allows Global Access to Real-Time Ebola, MERS Gene Sequences

Wed, 22 Apr 2015 17:00:00 Z

A project led by a group of international scientists aims to help researchers around the world access online real-time genetic sequencing data on Ebola and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome viruses. Scientists hope the data will aid in diagnosing, treating and preventing the viruses. Reuters.

$100M Effort To Boost Health Data Collection in Developing Countries

Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:01:00 Z

A new four-year, $100 million initiative led by Bloomberg Philanthropies aims to bolster health data collection to help 1.2 billion individuals in 20 countries live healthier and longer lives. The project will leverage inexpensive data collection tools -- such as mobile phones -- to help local officials prioritize health issues and develop policies. Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Philanthropies release.

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.

White House CIO To Help USAID Leverage Tech in Ebola Outbreak

Mon, 22 Sep 2014 16:53:00 Z

On Friday, the Obama administration announced that White House CIO Steve VanRoekel will join USAID as chief innovation officer of its Ebola response team. VanRoekel will help the response team improve its use of technology and data analytics in addressing the outbreak. Modern Healthcare at al.

Ebola Outbreak, CMS' Efforts Boosting Infection-Control Tech Use

Fri, 12 Sep 2014 17:44:00 Z

A Black Book survey finds that the recent Ebola outbreak and CMS' crackdown on health care-associated infections will make infection-control technology a "must have" in 2015. Meanwhile, an executive from 3M Health Information Systems argues that the Ebola outbreak demonstrates how transitioning to ICD-10 could improve public health leaders' response to global pandemics. FierceHealthIT, Health Data Management.

CDC Tests Tablet-Based Disease Detection System at World Cup

Thu, 17 Jul 2014 17:16:00 Z

CDC teamed up with Brazilian Ministry of Health officials to test a tablet-based disease detection system designed to identify potential outbreaks during the World Cup. The tablet uses CDC's Epi Info software, which allows epidemiologists deployed in the field to collect and stream various data to a cloud computer storage in real time. GCN, CDC's "Our Global Voices."

CDC Tool Helps Identify and Track Ebola Outbreak in Guinea, Liberia

Fri, 02 May 2014 14:45:00 Z

Disease detectives are using a software tool developed by CDC to monitor the Ebola hemorrhagic fever outbreaks in Guinea and Liberia. CDC Director Tom Frieden called the tool -- which is available for download at no cost -- the "'Swiss Army knife' of field-deployed epidemiologists." United Press International.

Global Health IT Market Poised To Reach $66B by 2020, Report Says

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 17:09:00 Z

A report from Global Industry Analysts projects the global health IT market will reach $66 billion by 2020. The report attributes the market growth in part to a higher demand for health IT spurred by federal initiatives and increased use of smart devices. FierceHealthIT, Healthcare Informatics.

Health IT Startup Offers EHRs to Developing Nations via Mobile Health

Wed, 18 Dec 2013 19:03:00 Z

E-Health Records International, a health IT startup based in Sebastopol, Calif., is offering developing countries a way to adopt an electronic health record system through cellular networks and cloud-based computer servers. The company says such an approach can significantly reduce EHR-related costs, which often are prohibitive in developing nations. Santa Rosa Press Democrat.

Report: Global Telehealth Market To Grow by 18.5% Through 2018

Tue, 17 Dec 2013 16:19:00 Z

A Research and Markets report predicts that the global telemedicine market will increase by a compound annual growth rate of 18.5% through 2018 because of a shortage of physicians serving rural areas and the continuous development of telecommunications technology. FierceHealthIT.

WHO Launches International Database on Mental Health Laws, Policies

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 18:23:00 Z

MiNDbank, a new World Health Organization database, has been launched to help users view information about different countries' laws, policies, service standards, strategies and success stories related to mental health issues. The database includes key mental health and substance misuse information from more than 160 countries. News Medical.

Global Survey: Patients Seek Health Care Technology Innovations

Mon, 09 Dec 2013 19:09:00 Z

A global survey by Intel finds that most patients are willing to embrace health care technology innovation as a means to obtain more effective and efficient care. Many respondents say they want health care technology to track their biological makeup and individual behaviors to help develop customized treatments. Forbes' "The Apothecary" et al.

UPMC's Big Data Warehouse Produces Breast Cancer Findings

Fri, 21 Jun 2013 07:00:00 Z

Researchers have electronically integrated genomic and clinical data for 140 breast cancer patients, allowing them to further investigate molecular differences in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal breast cancer cases. The move is the first step in trying to develop more personalized, targeted therapies, as well as advancing population health management. Healthcare IT News, FierceHealthIT.

United Kingdom Unveils Plans To Launch World's Largest Cancer Database

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:00:00 Z

The United Kingdom's Public Health England has announced plans to create the world's largest database on cancer patients. The database -- which one official described as "game changing" -- aims to help facilitate highly personalized treatment plans. London Telegraph, BBC News.

Global Alliance Aims To Boost Sharing of Genetic, Clinical Data

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:00:00 Z

Yesterday, about 70 major research and health care organizations from dozens of countries announced that they will team up to create a framework for sharing genetic and clinical data. The groups -- which include NIH and Harvard University -- say that improving the sharing of such data is key to advancing medical knowledge. New York Times, Boston Globe.

Canada Achieves Major Cost Savings Through EHR Adoption

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:00:00 Z

A study from PricewaterhouseCoopers finds that the increased adoption of electronic health record systems helped Canada's health care system save an estimated 1.3 billion Canadian dollars -- or about $1.27 billion -- over six years. The study notes that Canada's health system achieved the savings through greater administrative efficiency and improved care. EHR Intelligence, CBC News.

Low-, Middle-Income Countries Lag in Mobile Health, Report Finds

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 07:00:00 Z

An mHealth Alliance report finds that a lack of standards and interoperability is hindering the use of mobile health technology in low- and middle-income countries. The report recommends strategies to incentivize interoperability. FierceMobileHealthcare, mHealth Alliance report.

AHRQ-Funded Health IT Research Supports Care in Developing Countries

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 07:00:00 Z

A recent report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality finds that the global health organization Partners in Health has leveraged AHRQ-funded research on electronic health record systems to support its health care projects in developing countries. Healthcare IT News.

Review Finds Limited Evaluation of Global Mobile Health Projects

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 08:00:00 Z

A review published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research examines mobile health interventions in low- and middle-income countries and finds few formal evaluations demonstrating how mobile health projects have affected clinical outcomes. FierceMobileHealthcare.

U.K. Launching Genetic Sequencing Database for Medical Research

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 08:00:00 Z

As many as 100,000 United Kingdom residents with cancer and rare diseases could have their genetic codes included in a National Health Service database. The project aims to advance medical research, but some advocates have raised privacy concerns. Reuters, BBC News.

mHealth Alliance, CARE Partner To Advance Maternal, Child Health

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 08:00:00 Z

A new partnership between the mHealth Alliance and CARE aims to use mobile health technology to improve maternal, newborn and child health in developing countries. The partnership also could lead to the development of new mobile health innovations. FierceMobileHealthcare.

Effort Uses Smartphones To Boost Cervical Cancer Diagnoses in Tanzania

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:00:00 Z

Public health leaders in Canada and Tanzania are collaborating on a project that seeks to use smartphones to conduct cervical cancer screenings. For the project, health care workers will use smartphones to send images of cervixes to trained physicians, who will provide diagnoses. CNN.

What Percentage of EU Internet Users Have Pursued Health-Related Activities Online?

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 08:00:00 Z

Eighty-three percent of surveyed Internet users in Spain, 76% of surveyed Internet users in Germany and 56% of surveyed Internet users in the United Kingdom have gone online for health-related activities within the past 12 months, according to a recent report by Manhattan Research.

Smartphone Use High Among U.K. Medical Students, New Doctors

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 08:00:00 Z

A new study finds that in the United Kingdom, most medical students and newly qualified physicians use smartphones. Most of the surveyed medical students and new doctors reported having between one and five medical applications on their phone. FierceMobileHealthcare.

WHO Branch Releases App for Monitoring Adolescent Health

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 07:00:00 Z

A new mobile health application from the Pan American Health Organization -- a regional office of the World Health Organization -- aims to help public health workers track the health behaviors of adolescents. The app allows users to visualize and compare data. MobiHealthNews.

Breaches at U.K.'s NHS Exposed Nearly 1.8M Patient Health Records

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 07:00:00 Z

A Daily Mail investigation finds that during one year, the United Kingdom's National Health Service experienced several data breaches that exposed nearly 1.8 million patient records. Some breaches involved records being sold on an auction website. Daily Mail, London Telegraph.

Australia Terminates IBM's $23M Contract for National EHR System

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 07:00:00 Z

The Australian government has terminated a $23 million contract with IBM to build a security component for a national electronic health record system, citing missed deadlines and delays. The government has implemented an interim service. Government Health IT, iTnews.

European Market for EHRs To Reach $8.8B by 2017, Report Says

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 07:00:00 Z

A Kalorama Information report predicts that the European market for electronic health record systems will grow from $6.8 billion in 2012 to $8.8 billion by 2017, in part because of government efforts to establish a more universal EHR network. Clinical Innovation & Technology.

Scientists Tap Mobile Phones To Track the Spread of Malaria

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 07:00:00 Z

In a new study, researchers combined large volumes of mobile phone information with infectious disease data to track how human travel contributes to the spread of malaria in Kenya. The findings identified areas where malaria control efforts could be most effective. CNN et al.

CSC Reaches Deal With U.K. Health Service on Lorenzo EHR System

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 07:00:00 Z

The United Kingdom's National Health Service and Computer Sciences Corporation have reached a deal allowing CSC to offer an electronic health record system in the U.K. but stripping CSC of exclusive rights in some regions. Washington Business Journal's "FedBiz Talk" et al.

Report: Governments Should Promote Digital Health Innovations

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 07:00:00 Z

A report by the Digital Innovation in Healthcare Working Group calls for governments to promote digital innovation in the health care industry by empowering patients to access their data, facilitating rapid sharing of best practices and other strategies. Modern Healthcare, FierceHealthIT.

Australia Faces Problems in Rollout of Personal Health Record System

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 07:00:00 Z

Only 320 Australians have registered for the country's Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record initiative since it launched on July 1. The system also has encountered difficulty registering names that contain apostrophes. Sydney Morning Herald, Melbourne Herald Sun.

Report: Value-Based Health Care Requires Data Standards, IT

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 07:00:00 Z

A Boston Consulting Group report finds that value-based health care systems require certain data standards and IT infrastructure to operate effectively. The study notes that the U.S. has some well-developed disease registries but lacks other medical registries. InformationWeek.

Groups Release Report on Using Mobile Health Technology To Fight TB

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 07:00:00 Z

A new report by the Stop TB Partnership and the mHealth Alliance outlines how mobile health technology could help diagnose tuberculosis in the field, encourage patients to adhere to TB medication regimens and monitor TB treatment. FierceMobileHealthcare.

Developing Countries Quick To Adopt Mobile Health, Report Finds

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 07:00:00 Z

A report finds that mobile health adoption is moving at a faster pace in developing nations than in developed nations. Researchers say regulatory barriers could be hindering mobile health adoption in developed countries. Healthcare Finance News, Becker's Hospital Review.

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

Fri, 25 May 2012 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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 07:00:00 Z

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.