On Thursday, October 4th, Microsoft unveiled HealthVault, its new health information product. HealthVault, according to Microsoft will be able to securely store health data online. Everyone who uses the product will have access to his or her health records anywhere in the world that has internet access. Individuals that sign on to the product will have the ability to decide what goes into their HealthVault record and who can see the data once it is there.
This is what Microsoft said about their commitment to Health Privacy:
1. The Microsoft HealthVault record you create is controlled by you.
2. You decide what goes into your HealthVault record.
3. You decide who can see and use your information on a case-by-case basis.
4. We do not use your health information for commercial purposes unless we ask and you clearly tell us we may.
-Source: www.healthvalut.com
What is most remarkable about the product is it is free to individuals, hospitals and doctors. So how does Microsoft intend to pay for the product? Health Vault is not only a product that helps you collect, store and share your health information, it is also a vertical search engine. HealthVault Search is a search engine completely dedicated to helping people find health related information. Microsoft plans to sell advertising to companies that provide health services and products.
HealthVault will actually allow you to save your search results from HealthVault Search so that you can keep track of your finding and be able to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
You can learn more about the product or get signed up today for HealthVault’s beta at, www.healthvault.com.