Palo Alto Medical Foundation Begins Testing Web-Based Program
The Palo Alto Medical Foundation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Sutter Health, has started testing a new Web-based system that allows patients to view their own medical records, request appointments and renew prescriptions on line, the San Francisco Business Times reports. The initial testing phase currently allows about 100 patients and physicians to use the site; by the end of March, the number of authorized users will grow to about 1,000. In addition, PAMF will begin giving access to the program to employees of Adobe, Apple Computer, Oracle and Cisco -- all members of the Pacific Business Group on Health, which is "discussing potential funding options" with PAMF. The foundation hopes to offer the program to more patients by the end of the year, with its large-scale introduction contingent on the acceptance of providers. The Business Times reports that if the pilot program is successful, "it may have broader applications beyond just ... PAMF members and providers" (Doherty, San Francisco Business Times, 2/12).
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