Microsoft develops E-heath Data-aggregation Software

Microsoft unveils a new version of its software for aggregating and storing electronic health records that makes it easier for patients and doctors to share information electronically.

The new release of Almaga Unified Intelligent System 2009 offers bi-directional integration with Microsoft's HealthVault, an online repository where people can store and manage their health and wellness information. As well as linking Almaga to HealthVault, Microsoft also is adding a Web interface to the system so health-care practitioners who have the right to access information from Almaga can do so through Web portals. The company also has added new features to the system, one of which that allows images such as X-rays and MRIs to be stored.

Still management of health-care records and information appears as big pain point for the Medical Industry. The health-care information system in the U.S. is difficult for both patients and doctors to navigate. Patient health records for the most part remain stored in disparate systems and there are still huge paper trails of records that health-care providers must keep to comply with regulations that govern the industry.


Microsoft, along with other tech giants like Google and IBM, has been at the forefront of helping to improve health-care IT systems. Microsoft executives have even testified before the U.S. Senate to advise the government on the issue.