While databases and sharing information can lower costs and improve service in a range of industries, the ownership of information can impinge upon one’s privacy and allow access to private information by people that you don’t know or would not want to have access to your data. The line between utility and invasion of privacy has been blurred by many private businesses – the best illustration of this is the pile of spam in your email inbox everyday. We’ve shared our concerns about Google‘s harvesting and retention of information without user knowledge; while it may help them send relevant products and services your way it is also used for their benefit and sold to others.
Now Microsoft wants your health records. That is not something I would want. While it may be beneficial to have the data incorporated in to a database I would only want the data stored by a reliable, independent third party. If you feel concerned, stay in touch with your MD and insurance company lest they share your data without your awareness.
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