Backup Anytime

See also : http://backupanytime.com/blog/?p=56

On Monday, Google announced a beta version of the Google personal health records system.

The system allows users store and track their personal health profile.

The system goes beyond simple storage. Googles medical and technical partnerships in this project make it possible for Google Health users to receive automatic updates of their prescriptions, medical records and even medical test results!

Amazingly, Google Health is not subject to H.I.P.A.A. compliance.

Google are currently offering Google Health as a free service. They have made a commitment that they will not sell user data and in addition they do not currently have plans to target users of the service with Google advertising.

When questioned about information life-cycle relative to end user deletion, a Google spokesperson explained that while the deletion is immediate, a backup may remain in place for some time.

There have been some concerns raised about targeted advertising and about advertising products and services relative to a persons illness. General consensus is that any system which makes medical information available to the individual and his Doctor must be good. The areas of privacy and the possibility of targeted advertising will affect uptake levels.