The Social Security Administration released a press release today saying that they’re testing Microsoft’s HealthVault in the disability process. HealthVault is a free online service that enables people to gather, store and manage their families’ health information and share that information with their health-care providers.

Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, was quoted as saying that “combined with other advancements in health information technology, our use of HealthVault should result in faster decisions for disability applicants.”

As I write this, I can almost hear the cries of legitimate concern that will no doubt be raised concerning the security of protected health information. However, at this time, I choose to join Mr. Astrue in hope that this partnership will result in faster decisions for disability applicants.

Thanks for reading,
Eric

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Eric L. Johnson, Esq.
Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability Attorney
Ziff Law Firm, LLP
303 William St., Elmira, NY 14901
Tel: (607) 733-8866
Fax: (607) 732-6062
Toll Free: 1-800-943-3529
Email: ejohnson@zifflaw.com
Web: http://www.zifflaw.com