Microsoft launches encrypted e-mail service for sharing patient health information electronically

By eGovAsia Editors | Feb 14, 2011

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REDMOND - Microsoft Corp. has introduced new encrypted e-mail functionality for Microsoft HealthVault, which allows clinical partner solutions to send messages to patients based on security protocols set forth by the Office of the National Coordinator’s (ONC’s) Direct Project.

Through this offering, every HealthVault record will be able to automatically accept mails directly from healthcare providers.  Initial partners include MedPlus and VisionShare Inc., which have integrated the new service with their solutions to help clinical users secure messages they send to patients. 

“The initial goal of the Direct Project is to specify a simple, secure, scalable, standards-based way for participants to send authenticated, encrypted health information directly to known, trusted recipients over the Internet,” said Wes Rishel, vice president and distinguished analyst, Gartner.

“It is exciting to see early, real-world examples of applications based on the Direct Project’s security protocols emerging through the efforts of the private sector. Through public-private partnerships such as these we are starting to see the sharing of critical information across the health system,” he added.

Through this functionality, an encrypted copy of an individual’s clinical information can be electronically transmitted to a patient’s new e-mail address created within Microsoft HealthVault, where it is automatically saved to the patient’s HealthVault account as part of their longitudinal personal health record. 

“This service and our early partnerships are accelerating the ability for patients to become active participants in managing their health,” said Sean Nolan, distinguished engineer and chief architect, Microsoft Health Solutions Group. “As one of the first examples of the Direct Project security protocols being utilized to meet Meaningful Use requirements, this interoperability is a step on the road map to the goal of expanding secure online interactions between physicians and patients.”