Earlier today, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts became the first medical insurance provider to partner up with Google Health, the recently launched online medical records service offered free of charge to patients by internet giant, Google.

Speaking on behalf of the insurance company, Cleve Killingsworth says the partnership is expected to introduce an important tool that can be used by members to keep better track of their medical information. In doing so, the insurance provider anticipates improvements made to the safety level and efficacy of their health care services. Killingsworth is chairman and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA).

One reason given for teaming up with Google Health is interest from members in having access to their personal medical records in a way that is easier to maintain and with improved portability. By merely opening a password-protected Google Health account, BCBSMA members can access records from every medical facility or pharmacy they’ve included in their own personal online files. And now that BCBSMA is a member of the partnership, insured patients will be able to file and track insurance claims using their Google Health account.

Once the Google Health platform has been fully integrated with that of BCBSMA, members will have access to service features that allow them to:

• Organize, manage, and store personal health information in one secure online location.
• Access and store downloaded records and prescription information from other healthcare providers also enrolled as partners in Google Health.
• Transfer medical data to and from healthcare providers.
• Stay informed about issues or interactions that may affect the individual’s state of health, such as drug interactions or potential adverse reactions.
• Find a doctor or hospital using the online service.

Members have the option to discontinue or cancel entirely their Google Health accounts at any time. No personal data will be shared or sold. The integration between Google Health and BCBSMA is expected to be complete by late 2008.

Source: Business Wire