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California bows to health insurers, encourages more PHR use

EHR Connection, June 9, 2008

The results of a survey of California’s major health insurers have inspired the state’s Department of Insurance to encourage Golden State consumers to use PHRs, The Sacramento Bee reported May 20.

The survey reports that despite the availability of PHRs through insurers and managed care groups, not enough Californians use them, according to the article. Describing PHRs as efficient and secure, the report says they help consumers better manage their healthcare and deal with insurance claims.

Advocates of PHRs say they provide medical professionals with quick access to patient medical information and streamline the claims process.

However, some privacy advocates express skepticism about the ability of some PHR providers to protect consumer privacy online, including the Institute for Health Freedom in Washington, DC. “While providing information is essential when seeking services, one shouldn’t be forced to give up privacy and the freedom to withhold consent,” says group founder and president Sue Blevins on the organization’s Web site.

Click here to read The Sacramento Bee article.

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