Sharing your personal health data? Don ’t be scared!

I recently had the opportunity to join Boston news media veteran, Dan Rea, on his AM radio program, Nightside with Dan Rea. It was a one-hour call-in program and an eye-opening experience for me. Dan and I chatted about connected health and how it can truly disrupt care delivery and put the individual at the center of their own health. Then Dan opened the lines to the fine citizens of New England for questions, and the phones started ringing off the hook. The overwhelming concern — actual fear — among callers was maintaining their privacy in an increasingly connected world, especially their personal health data. I was so struck by the extent of concern, I thought I’d present a few theories I’ve been contemplating on the subject. When it comes to privacy issues, the cyber world is typically characterized as a sinister place, where consumers are duped and exploited, their data leaked or stolen. What we, unfortunately, don’t talk about is what consumers have to gain by sharing their data. For instance, the same information that can be used to create highly personalized programs to help people stay healthier and happier, can also be a key factor in improving efficiencies and reducing health care costs. Further, it’s been shown that sharing data with providers, friends or social media groups can actually help people stay on track with their health and wellness goals. Continue reading ... Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputatio...
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Tech Mobile health Source Type: blogs