Tag Archives: health 2.0

I had the chance to see Aneesh Chopra speak at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco last Wednesday, August 18th.  Chopra is the nation’s first Chief Technology Officer and officially works in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.  You know all that healthcare information technology stuff you have been hearing about from Washington, DC?  That’s his charge–the good, the bad and the ugly.  Must be a daunting job in some ways since the healthcare system has, for a long time, rejected IT like a mismatched kidney.

Chopra is notable for his incredible optimism, deep knowledge of the field and smooth speaking skills.  He talked about his view of the role of the federal government in fostering healthcare IT.  His vision is that government should act as “convener”, not rule-maker.  He wants to let a few thousand flowers bloom by setting up events that draw from public and private industry, big and small companies, and represent the interests of consumers, providers and carriers.  So far a few of these events have actually come together.  A few of them even threaten to produce something of value, which is great.… (read the rest)