Healthcare 2.0: The Electronic Age of Healthcare
From e-prescribing to disease blogs, advances in technology
are fast transforming the quality of healthcare and the way
families access it.
Electronic medical records (EMRs) hold the promise of improving
healthcare by increasing the efficiency of everything from
accessing a patient's medical history to tracking medical
errors. Meanwhile, Internet innovations and a rapid expansion of
health-related websites have made more medical information
accessible to parents and families. As consumer-directed health
plans put more decisions about medical care in families' hands,
parents increasingly turn to the Internet for advice, support, and
information. In one recent survey, more than half of adults said
that what they found on the Internet had an impact on how they care
for themselves or someone else.
What to Watch:
Advances in technology are producing new ways to deliver health
information for consumers and doctors. These changes could give
parents more freedom, flexibility, and responsibility when it comes
to meeting family medical needs. However, it will be more important
than ever for doctors to work with their patients to ensure that
the information derived from the burgeoning array of media sources
is relevant and appropriate for their kids. No matter what,
consumer-driven healthcare is here to stay ― and more changes are
in the offing.
For Teens:
Talking to Your Doctor
Figuring Out Health News
For Parents:
How to Talk to Your Child's Doctor
Your Child's Checkups
Making Sense of Medical News
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Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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