I know everyone these days likes to run around like chickens with their heads cut off when they see an article about Google or Facebook and data, but please try

I know everyone these days likes to run around like chickens with their heads cut off when they see an article about Google or Facebook and data, but please try and calm down. First of all, Google has already been involved in health, and will continue to do so, as the health market is 3.5 Trillion dollars. Last week they announced plans to develop a search product for electronic health records. If it works, it has the potential to make health care more efficient (as in costing you less and working out better for you). https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21508205 https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=21508205 Second, lots of companies collect, process, or transmit your health records. Companies you know nothing about, and that you never scrutinize. This is perfectly legal, as HIPAA (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_Insurance_Portability_and_Accountability_Act https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_Insurance_Portability_a...) provides wide leeway for companies to handle your data, as long as it is under a chain of business contracts and compliance requirements that originate with your health care provider, insurer, etc. Under the Privacy Rule, you have rights that you can exercise to verify this is all being done properly. (However, complaints will probably be ignored as HHS isn't funded properly to deal with them) If you want to collect your internet pitchforks and go after someone, please start with the government. The rules in place are okay, but they don't mean anything without effective enforcement.