USB-based Personal Health Records: An analysis of features and functionality

PURPOSE To determine the features of commercially available USB-based Personal Health Records (PHR) devices, and compare the commercial state of the art to recommendations made by certification committees. METHODS Thirteen USB-based PHRs were identified and analyzed based on data elements used and features provided. Marketing techniques used by the companies were also explored. RESULTS Eight of the thirteen PHRs contained all seven clinical data elements (problems, procedures, medications, providers, allergies, labs, immunizations), three were missing a single element and the remaining two lacked two elements. In the features analysis no single PHR contained all eight features (export data, import data, images, summary print out, emergency entry, teaching material available for problem, username and password supported, Mac-compatible), but two of the devices had seven of the eight features. Finally, scare tactics were used in marketing all but two of the PHR devices. CONCLUSION While PHRs are very important in the health care field, at the present time, USB-based PHRs currently on the market appear to have deficiencies. Tethered or web-based PHRs may be a better option for consumers at present.