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Competition Promotes Innovation in Veteran Health Care

by Jennifer Hoops
July 19, 2011

A contest sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the VA Innovation Initiative (VAi2) is offering a $50,000 prize to the first team that builds a personal health record (PHR) using the Blue Button download format. The Blue Button is VA technology that allows veterans to download their personal health data in a safe, simple and inexpensive way.

According to the VA, 300,000 veterans are already using the capability via the My HealtheVet website to download information such as upcoming appointments, medications, allergies, and lab results.

Blue Button contest to expand veteran access to personal health data

Veterans who receive health care through the VA are already able to download PHRs using the Blue Button technology. The contest winners will create an application that can be used by non-VA doctors and hospitals as well. Approximately 17 million veterans receive health care at non-VA facilities, the VA reported.

The contest is open to all U.S. organizations and individuals. It began July 18 and runs through October 18.

For more information on the Blue Button Prize Competition and to access contest rules, refer to the press release "VA Announces Blue Button Prize Competition."

About the Author

Jennifer Hoops works as a project manager within the IT organization of a global manufacturing company. Her previous experience includes IT consulting and software sales. Prior to earning an MBA and becoming an IT professional, Jennifer earned a Bachelors degree in Economics and Music and spent several years as an independent music teacher.

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