My dad was a survivor — of a heart attack in his 50s, kidney cancer in his 60s, and an initial diagnosis of melanoma in his 70s. Melanoma recurrence and complications of treatment are what finally got him. A lifelong runner, Dad kept meticulous notes about his mileage and heart rate on paper. He bought […]
Writing
Cheese, whisky, and health data
Here’s how I’ve been talking about health data interoperability recently, with an appeal to people’s patriotism (and their appetites): At the start of the video, I thank Mona Siddiqui, MD, for her service as the Chief Data Officer at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To learn more about her portfolio, check out […]
Sunflowers turn to each other for help
Sunflowers have always been my favorite flower and now I know why: They turn to each other for help. Image: My backyard sunflower patch at its midsummer height (I gave up on growing vegetables this year and reaped a crop of beauty instead).
Why should anyone care about health data interoperability?
A question I hear quite often, sometimes whispered, is: Why should anyone care about health data interoperability? It sounds pretty technical and boring. If I’m talking with a “civilian” (in my world, someone not obsessed with health care and technology) I point out that interoperable health data can help people care for themselves and their families […]
Chasing cures
Years ago, I met a mom of a child with a rare disease who matter-of-factly shared her story, which included as many twists and close calls as any blockbuster summer movie. I marveled at her heroism and she said no, she rejects that description. “I’m not a hero,” she insisted. “I’m a typical mom. You […]
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