We often cover topics about connectivity, and today, we have a significant milestone coming out of Kaiser Permanente in the world of personal health records. More than 4 million patients are now registered to use Kaiser Permanente’s personal health record, My Health Manager, on kp.org, making it one of the most actively used PHRs in the United States.
Personal health records can empower patients to become more engaged in their health care, especially those PHRs connected directly to a patient’s electronic health record. When patients have access to the same health information as their care providers, as well as time-saving features like the ability to e-mail their doctors, refill prescriptions and schedule appointments, they can partner with their care teams on a plan to reach their health goals and manage existing conditions. Moreover, a 2010 Kaiser Permanente study published in Health Affairs found that secure patient-physician email messaging improves the effectiveness of care for patients with diabetes and hypertension.
When research like that links connectivity with improved outcomes, every new user of a personal health record is a step in the right direction. Here’s how one patient uses My Health Manager to take control of her health.
