Protecting life and health in the midst of electronic and Internet mayhem

The Internet offers huge benefits at a time when health care desperately needs cost-effective solutions that improve quality, reduce medical errors, and reach out to consumers. However, the abundant benefits offered by the Internet come with a price--new risks to patient privacy and safety. These risks must be understood well and managed skillfully if health care is to reap the benefits of Internet use without jeopardizing the safety of patients. Solutions are not simple; they involve technology, people, and fundamental principles of safe system design.