Abilify connected pill: ethics and privacy aspects of Personal Health Monitoring

On 13 November 2017, we reached a historical new step in mobile health and PHM (Mobile Health Monitoring) with a market clearance by the FDA of "Abilify MyCite". This is the first approved digital tracking-pill, which sends data to your doctor. This connected pill is used to track whether patients sufferring from schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder and depression have taken their medication. This short article outlines some basics about this new technology, as well as ethical and privacy aspects of PHM.

Prescription support software are considered as medical device

On 7 December 2017, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) issued a first ruling clarifying under what condition a medical software is considered as a medical device. In this case, the ECJ considers that functions of a prescription support software are a medical devices. In addition, CE marking is sufficient for free circulation within the EU. This article analyses and discusses the ruling and the impact on the medical software industry.

Zurich au crépuscule

Swiss Digital Day: 21-11-2017

Switzerland not only is a country of innovation, but also of innovators with a huge number of startups and a creative mindset. We know that the power of the Swiss expertise, values and tradition is an asset. Let's take the benefit of this worldwide uncontested reputation for developping a digital Swissness! Share your thoughts and be creative, innovative, let's empower the Swiss digital potential!

Outsourcing medical billing: a matter of transparency

In healthcare, it is frequent for medical professionals and health institutions to outsource medical billing to a third party. There are many financial and practical advantages to subcontract such service. However, medical billing must comply with legal obligations, in particular with medical secrecy and data protection regulations. The third party may not use the data for another purpose than medical billing if the patient do not give its explicit consent in writing for such other purpose. This short article provides recommendations for healthcare professionals and service providers.

Safe Harbour

Safe Harbour Episode II: the “UE-U.S. Privacy Shield”

The invalidation of Safe Harbor Framework by European Court of Justice forced US and European authorities to negotiate a new Agreement named Privacy Shield. Will the Shield protect efficiently European data from mass surveillance in the USA? What is the current legal situation for individuals and companies? What are the next steps in EU and Switzerland? Some questions and few answers at this point of time !