Commentology: National Health Information Networks; What is the Benefit?

Gregory Park from DB Technology, wrote in to say this about National Health Information Networks:

"I was wondering where is the debate on the real benefits in NHINs.  What is the benefit exactly?  The way that I see it, most of the benefits could be achieved by lower tech efforts such as disease hotlines which exist today.

Is there real benefit in creating a centralized medical record for each patient? Can you tell me the provisions for when my medical identity is stolen and bad information fuses to my national health record?  Smells bad to me…

Where is the conversation on data ownership?  I know there is an emphasis on assuring that patients have access to their data.  Well thank you very much for considering me.

Actually I was considering whether I want to share MY data with the NHIN!  Actually I don’t.  I want to control my information lock stock and barrel.  Give it to me whenever I receive care and I will make sure it makes it to the next care-giver that needs the information.  Give me the information and I will make sure I merge it with all the other data collected, including my PHR!

I really believe that as consumers we need a choice, and it’s a choice that is older than the heavens!  Give me the choice to self-direct or be directed. 

Where is that conversation?"

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