Microsoft established HealthVault in 2007 after two years in the making. Microsoft used its old strategy of using partners when it built the database. The website includes a personal health record and an internet search tool. Personal information is secured and encrypted. Privacy controls are handled by the user. Dr. Deborah Peel, chair of the Patient Privacy Rights Foundation, says “Microsoft is setting an industry standard for privacy.” Mr. Neupert of Microsoft states that people need to see a good history of trust and the convenience of personal health records. Originally, people did not want to use online banking for privacy reasons, but now it is commonplace.
Optimally, the user does not need to enter health data. Health data will be transferred automatically. Creating partnerships is essential for this to happen and Microsoft has already enrolled health care companies.
As people use more online tools and the population ages, personal health management could be very important in the future. Many other technologies have struggled to launch health initiates, while Microsoft pushed ahead. Dr. Daniel Jones, the president of the American Heart Association, says, “The potential here is very great. And we all recognize the power of Microsoft to reach millions of households.” Mr. Neupert claims that “To make a difference in health care, it is going to take time and scale. And Microsoft has both.”
