Microsoft, Mayo challenge Google HealthVault

Mayo Clinic and Microsoft have launched Mayo Clinic Health Manager, a privacy- and security-enhanced online application for storing personal medical information, where consumers can receive individualized health guidance and recommendations based on the clinical expertise of Mayo Clinic.

The interactive functionality uses an individual's health information to generate customized recommendations on which they can act to better manage their health and the health of their families, according to Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft.

Powered by Microsoft HealthVault, Mayo Clinic Health Manager allows users to store copies of their EHRs obtained from their providers, health plans, pharmacies, schools, government or employers; upload information from home health devices like blood glucose monitors and digital scales; and share information with caregivers.

The service provides access to products and services to help improve their health, using this information to deliver reminders and recommendations specific to each family member's life stage and health status. As users enter more personal health information, Mayo Clinic Health Manager delivers more specific and customized recommendations.

In its initial offering, Mayo Clinic Health Manager will include tools and features that help manage: pediatric wellness, including immunizations, adult wellness, pregnancy and asthma. Additional features will be incorporated in the upcoming months that will help users manage Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Mayo Clinic of Rochester, Minn., and Microsoft said that they will work to add new functionality and health guidance.