When Smart Apps Aren't

B'SD

15 Elul 5770



Smart Apps (i. e., applications on digital devices such as smart phones and websites that remind you what to do and when) make news and fun feature stories. But I'm going to level with you: I rarely err when I predict future trends. And I predict that Smart Apps will eventually turn you into one wondering human when the power goes out. Possibly into a person who's sicker than necessary.

Today's Technology can

help travelers to cope

with health issues on
the road and even
before you leave.

BUT travelers and

stay-at-homers

need to take PROPER
health precautions.

If you're traveling to

far-flung locales or

stay-cationing in your

own back yard, you

already know of

global fears about

blackouts regarding

excessive power

demands and/or

terrorism.

Total reliance on

electronic devices

isn't wise. A good
back-up plan perhaps,

but not full coverage

of your medical needs.

I advise you to invest in paper and pens or pencils. Markers are nice, too. But be sure to note your medical must-dos on low-tech paper products as a sensible back-up Plan B.

Photocopies of your eyewear, other medical appliances plus medication prescriptions, instructions for your medical behaviors (exercise regimens, nebulizer usage etc.) and other necessities should be part of the notes you make and guard carefully.

When the power goes out, and it will one of these days, you'll be healthier for having protected your non-digital interests long before the new crises affect your neighbors and fellow patients.


UPDATE: On another tact, I'm worried about Facebook Places, a new online resource about medical establishments in local communities. I fear it will backfire as a milestone for healthcare social media. At first blush it seems like an opportunity for information overload, lawsuits regarding defamatory statements, and mass confusion. The pendulum will swing towards low-tech solutions once people realize that the Internet complicates life.

Sept. 15 2010 UPDATE: See what I mean? Chase Bank Website Down Due to Technical Difficulties

Sept. 24 2010 UPDATE: If my predictions above were on-target, rest assured that my book is ahead of the curve. Time and headlines prove me right: Malicious computer worm launched at industrial targets (... designed to cause serious damage in the physical world, security experts are warning).

Oct. 19 2010 UPDATE: Is Facebook Protecting or Endangering Your Privacy?

EMPOWER Yourself to Cope with a Medical Challenge.

Face Your Medical Problems with Dignity.
Face Your Future with Optimism.