Shifting the data paradigm
Try as we might to avoid it, it is difficult for us to discuss emerging trends in medicine without mentioning Meaningful Use. Thus we feel compelled to mention that the MU Stage III proposed rule (which we will be discussing at length in future columns) includes language about connected medical devices. Under the header of “Active Patient Engagement,” the rule requires that physicians incorporate health data from nonclinical settings for 15% of patients. This leads us to ponder several questions. First, how will we handle this new onslaught of health information? How should it affect our medical decision making? And finally, what is our role as patients embrace these new technologies to take increasing ownership of their own care. Returning to the words of Voltaire we find comfort in this: “The fine art of medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature cures the disease.” Perhaps the paradigm hasn’t changed much at all. Perhaps patients have simply found new ways to be amused.
Dr. Notte is a family physician and clinical informaticist for Abington (Pa.) Memorial Hospital. He is a partner in EHR Practice Consultants, a firm that aids physicians in adopting electronic health records. Dr. Skolnik is associate director of the family medicine residency program at Abington Memorial Hospital and professor of family and community medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia.