Method and system for consolidating and distributing information

Abstract

A method and system are provided for consolidating and distributing information. Implementation of system functionalities for both restricted local and unrestricted system-wide uses are permitted. Open standards for hardware, software and firmware components and standardized medical codes, definitions and formats are supported. The preferred embodiment of the invention provides an integrated health care system. The invention can also be used to allow secure access to Social Security, annuity, retirement account, and benefit information, allowing individuals a unified view of their benefit and payment status. A centralized host maintains, consolidates, and redistributes information generated at all networked locations. Information is electronically transferred among the system components to link an individual's local records to those stored remotely. The individual information device, centralized host computer, and any other computers or networks linked to the system can therefore be automatically updated. An individual information device stores a service recipient's insurance information, a emergency records and critical health care histories. This information is accessed by the system for use in managing any aspect of the service recipient's health care. Portable terminals can be used to access the system. A portable terminal can also be used independently from the system to perform health care functions. Unrestricted system-wide, or restricted local uses are supported. Insurance coverage for services and treatments can be determined and the information transmitted directly from the carrier(s) to the service recipient and service provider(s). Supported features include service authorization, messaging, diagnostic services, coverage determination, billing, and electronic payment.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08 / 960,755, filed 29 Oct. 1997.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Technical Field [0003] The invention relates to information processing. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and system for consolidating and distributing health care records. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] Providing effective management and organization for the health care system is a continuing need. Many attempts have been made to improve communication, for example, among insurers, health care providers, health plan sponsors, and patients. However, the health care system is still subject to significant problems in accurate record maintenance, access to information, and communication among various organizations and agencies. [0006] Pritchard, Medical Insurance Verification and Processing System, U.S. Pat. No. 4,491,725 (1 Jan. 1985) discloses a system for verifying an...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] The preferred embodiment of the invention provides an integrated health care system, managing all facets of modern health care, including individual service recipient care, public health, and health care policy. The invention is used to consolidate health care records, for example for diagnostic and research purposes, and to permit immediate access to time critical health care information. However, alternative embodiments of the invention can be used to capture, store, and process other types of information. For example, the invention can also be used to allow secure access to Social Security, annuity, retirement account, and benefit information, allowing individuals a unified view of their benefit and payment status.

[0014] The invention provides centralized record collection and facilitates the transfer of information among the different system components by electronically linking an individual's local records to those stored remotely, such as on the computer systems of insurance companies, health care service providers, health plan sponsors, medical researchers, and service support. A complete record of individual care is thereby provided.

Problems solved by technology

However, the health care system is still subject to significant problems in accurate record maintenance, access to information, and communication among various organizations and agencies.

However, Pritchard does not integrate other essential participants in the modern health care system.

For example, a user cannot locate and schedule appointments with health care specialists, or research treatment options using the system disclosed in Pritchard.

However, the Pritchard system does not disclose the structure or functionalities for providing both such local and system-wide uses in the same system.

However, the Cummings system is not designed for use by other participants in the health care system, such as medical researchers, and public agencies.

Furthermore, Cummings does not disclose support for health care data reporting standards.

Additionally, Cummings does not support auxiliary functionalities that are often essential to providing total health care for a patient.

For example, Cummings does not disclose support for such functionalities as Social Security, annuity, retirement account, and other benefit information.

However, neither Cummings nor Pritchard discusses the use of such portable input devices.

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