e-Health

Another major technological trend that is on the horizon is eHealth. “eHealth” describes all those processes, products and services related to patients’ health that are available on-line.

Some of these services will be electronic versions of processes that are currently provided using manual methods. Most prescribing of drugs, for example, - and in particular repeat prescriptions - that presently takes place manually through direct contact between physician and patient could very easily be transferred to a Web-based relationship.

And, in addition to the greater ease with which routine administration can be achieved, electronic and networked provision will deliver considerable advantages in terms of ease of use for both patients and doctor, offer enhanced record-keeping ability - particularly important with the care of chronic patients - and enhanced accessibility to information and services.

Resources:

West Virginia e-Health Initiative: www.wvehi.org

The eHealth Initiative and the Foundation for eHealth Initiative - http://www.ehealthinitiative.org/