August 31, 2010

Policy Brief: The Download Capability

Electronic personal health records should be designed with a standardized, simple interface for consumers to securely download their personal health information, including a standardized download interface, which the Markle Connecting for Health Collaborative has dubbed "blue button," was proposed as a way to increase use of health information technology and engage consumers. Additional aspects of the proposal included the following:

• A commonly recognizable icon, the Markle Connecting for Health Collaborative recommended a blue button.

• The button should be accessible only after secure log-in under a framework of sound identity proofing and authentication practices. Organizations offering the download capability should take steps to distinguish that the right individual is clicking the download button and provide a separate standardized mechanism for automated processes to request downloads based on the individual’s explicit, prior permission.

• The download button could be posted on secure Web sites offered by medical practices, hospitals, health insurers, pharmacies, and laboratory services