

The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act calls on health care organizations to develop meaningful use–based patient portals. Patient outcomes are improved when patients participate and are engaged in their own health care. In this week’s Discussion, consider the importance and potential benefits of patient-centered care as it relates to the HITECH Act’s mandate that health care organizations utilize patient portals in order to actively support patient engagement. To prepare for this Discussion Reflect on the benefits of patient portals, how these portals engage patients and their families in patient-centered care, and how they are changing the patient–provider relationship. Consider the effects of patient-generated health data on the continuity, quality, and safety of care.