Marcus Daly Hospital (Hamilton, MT) chosen to participate in national e-mail program

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is one of 80 medical facilities across the country set to receive new computers and software as part of a "Healthy E-mail" program aimed increasing communications between doctors and patients.

By BUDDY SMITH Ravalli Republic Staff Reporter

The program, announced Friday at a Capitol Hill ceremony and demonstration, is headed by a non-profit organization dedicated to maximizing e-mail use between the health care industry and patients, thus increasing communications between patients and doctors, U.S. Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., announced.

It’s designed to create secure electronic communication between doctors and patients, he said.

The Hamilton hospital will receive two computers complete with Internet service and software, according to Baucus’ office.

"This new program will make it easier for patients to communicate with their doctors," Baucus said in a news release. "The Healthy E-mail program will help us provide quality affordable health care to Montanans."

A hospital employee Friday said details of how the computers and software would be used were still unclear, but she added that the gift would be a benefit.

"We’re happy to have this enhancement of communications among health care providers and patients," said Glenda Krueger.

Baucus spokesman Barrett Kaiser said the Healthy E-mail program complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which requires physicians to safeguard sensitive health information sent via e-mail and other electronic networks by April 23.

The act was one of the catalysts for the initiative, the Healthy E-mail program said.

Two other Montana hospitals will benefit from the non-profit program. Glendive Clinic will receive two computers and software and Beartooth Hospital in Red Lodge will get three new computers and software.

Reporter Buddy Smith can be reached at 363-3300 or [email protected].

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