Basic computer information to improve computer literacy, including information about Internet Service Providers, wireless access, Web Browsers, Memory (RAM), the Cloud.

Depending on location, internet providers may vary along with their speed. For optimal internet access, a broadband connection should be obtained. Simply, this allows for high speed internet that is not only faster than dial up it is also more reliable. Broadband connection is offered from a variety of providers (Comcast, Centurylink, Etc.) that offer differing internet speeds to fit within an individual’s budget and needs. Wireless internet is preferred for most individuals because it allows for more than one device to gain access to the internet at a time.

Web browsers vary from computer and by an individual’s preference. The common ones accessible are Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Safari. These browsers contain search engines, typically the main page that opens up when loaded or one can use the URL bar to navigate. These search engines allow the audience to navigate to a certain website, search by keywords, or search for specific criteria such as restaurants near Salt Lake City, Utah.  The web browser usually has a default page where information including weather, traffic, and news reports can be added so one can stay informed.

The RAM or random access memory is the hardware device within your computer that stores the information on the computer that is in current use. Data, applications, and programs that are currently in use are stored in the RAM so they can be accessed quickly by the device’s processor. This data will remain within the RAM as long as the computer remains on and running, once shut off all memory in the RAM will be lost. If you have materials you would like to access again, you would need to save it within the hard drive.

The cloud, an internet based process that provides individuals with a chance to share their data to other computers or devices on demand. Using a network of remote services hosted on the internet, information can be stored, managed, and processed using the cloud rather than a personal computer. Basically, this provides another source for storage besides your hard drive and allows you to share data easily. This option often helps individuals free up space on their computer to allow it to run more smoothly and sometimes even faster.   

Information regarding the use of virtual support groups. Security and confidentiality addressed with a list of recommended virtual support group sites.

Millions of people around the world have been diagnosed with diabetes and are left with unanswered questions, and often feel all alone and uncertain about who they can turn to for support as they adapt to this new lifestyle. Various resources are available online for individuals for these exact purposes. As diabetics, it is important to be educated about maintaining safety while searching the internet, knowing which sites are appropriate, secure, and will maintain confidentiality. A few reliable sources available are the American Diabetes Association, an online support community (community.diabetes.org), Daily Strength Support Group (dailystrength.org), and Healthful Chat (healthfulchat.org).

American Diabetes Association not only provides an online resource with updated research articles, recipes, diabetes basic information, a hotline to call if you have questions, but also the online support group where members post their questions or concerns and individuals within this support group can reply with their comments and resources to help.

Daily Strength has a support group provided for patients diagnosed with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes. Type 1 support group focuses primarily on children recently diagnosed and provides an area where parents or loved ones can come seek help or comfort. It is a forum that is open to parents, or even those dealing with diabetes, where they can come to ask questions of all types regarding type 1 diabetes. The type 2 group focuses on those whose body does not produce enough insulin. Whether it deals with treatment, lifestyle, medications, or just needing support, this section can help guide and support you during the tough times.

Healthfulchat is another reliable source that provides a place to receive peer support. From the chat room to various forums, this site offers you a social network so that you can connect easily with others. Whether you are dealing with type 1 or 2, this resource provides access to individuals all over the world to discuss diet, symptoms, or just have a conversation with someone who understands what it is like to live life with this illness.

These websites require its participants to register an account which will require a valid email and demographic information to be provided. At times, portions may be optional to be filled out and it may be better to not reveal certain items about your identity (phone number, address). A username will be created and this is where it is important to not reveal personal information. Creating a unique username (e.g. name1234), will provide for a safer internet experience. Online safety is difficult to manage and this is why sites such as these suggest to their members to not reveal personal information while providing questions or answers. For example, when posing a question about food, if possible, do not include the location or the specific name of the restaurant. It is safer to ask generic questions or for recommendations around a central area such as Northern Utah, rather than saying specifically Logan or Nibley. Try not to reveal your location online, it often warrants unwelcome occurrences to happen.

Using a graphic or an image that does not contain a picture of yourself also allows for even more safety and confidentiality. This allows you to also remain anonymous while on these forums which provides a sense of comfort. Beginning this process can be intimidating and being able to ask questions anonymously often helps to bring about the courage to do so. We want the internet to be a tool for you to gain support and answers to the questions you may have, but keep your identity safe in the process.

Benefits of accessing and maintaining personal health records by using patient portals. Security and confidentiality addressed.

There are various benefits gained from maintaining personal health records and using patient portals. Doctors’ offices are trying to make it simpler by helping patients in a variety of ways. 

For example:

 -remembering doctors’ appointments  

-locating health records of past visits
-keeping immunization records
-showing medications the patient has taken in the past
-allergies documented
-offering referrals to other doctors (specialists)
-tracking messages from labs and other emails from the office

Using patient portals allows the patient to quickly have access to this information, thus the patient does not have to call the office for the information. This permits freeing the phone lines for other patients that have different needs.

This also, eliminates the need for paper copies, allowing the patient the freedom to store the information within the system and get free access to it at any time.

Individuals can have peace of mind knowing their private information will not be shared when using secure websites and secure apps. With the passing of the act of HIPPA done in Aug. 21, 1996. Health records are maintained private and are not shared with others without written consent from the individual them self.

Information regarding basic criteria for selecting health websites and apps, also addressing, security and confidentiality concerns for those managing diabetes.

Obtaining the knowledge for selecting health websites and apps that will benefit you to manage your diabetes is helpful. A couple things to keep in mind when viewing information pertaining to health websites. There are many health websites that aim to give helpful guidance and information. Before taking advice or direction from any website, it is important to establish if the website is trustworthy, with current information provided for your benefit from doctors that specialize in that field.

Also, when choosing a health website, you want to check the URL for the key words HTTPS. The (s) on the end of this web URL is important because it means that the site is secure to use. If the user inputs information into the website, they will know that their information will not be accessed, in other words it will be secure. Usually, there will be a green icon (a symbol) with a green padlock.

Something else to note is if the website uses “cookies”. A website can say it’s “secure” with a lock icon in green and inform you they use cookies. Cookies can be a tricky thing. A cookie is a small file which contains information that the website uses to track the user’s information and patterns as they browse the website and even other websites. This allows them to give other companies and 3^rd parties a way to advertise to you. This is how advertisers can get your information and then send you unsolicited advertisements. Thus, it’s best when possible to not use websites that use cookies or block cookies with your browser settings.

Keep in mind, when obtaining health information from a website it is wise to take the time to look at who is providing the information. This will ultimately, allow you to know if the information is credible, such as with the websites Mayo Clinic, Medline, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which are reputable sites you can count on for credible information.

When choosing apps to download it helps to focus in on what type of app it is and what it offers. Notice home many individuals have downloaded the app. This helps you see if the app is well established and people have found it to be favorable.  Take a moment to view the reviews on the app. This usually, will give you good insight on the benefits, problems, any issues people are experiencing, or positive attributes the app has over other apps. The higher the rating is, in general, the better the app usually turns out to be.

It is wise to note what “permissions” the app is asking you to allow. In other words, what kind of access is it requesting to obtain. Some apps ask for permission to allow for personal information to be exchanged to help you manage your health and to allow you access to your health records as well as allowing your provider access to your information. Thus, allowing your provider to better serve you.  For example, Mayo Clinic has an app that allows for the convenience of making appointments and helping you to manage your health overall or the app could be asking for permission to solicit to you for advertisement purposes. A couple of apps recommended for diabetes management are Glooko, Diabetes:M, and mySugr. These apps are free and have high ratings and positive reviews.