The power of the internet has put tools like medical reference sites in patients' hands. Dangers aside, this new world is here to stay. Medtech Global is developing an application that will build the doctor-patient relationship in this new environment. Manage My HealthTM is a secure, personal internet portal.

This portal will allow healthcare providers to empower individuals to take a more active role in their health and wellbeing. Online appointments, secure messaging and reminders are part of the portal's functionality.

Patients can also add entries to their own health records, set health objectives and mark their own calendar for things like immunisations and recalls. The portal can assist caregivers with managing the health care of their elderly or children.

The architecture of Manage My HealthTM has been developed with privacy and security paramount. It uses encryption technology that exceeds current New Zealand health sector standards and it is hosted in a secure environment in New Zealand.

Medtech's clinical reference group, including Professor Murray Tilyard and Dr Richard Medlicott, are part of the current beta trial of the portal. A staged roll out is anticipated between February and April 2009.