David Orentlicher

In the following viewpoint, David Orentlicher argues that a “unique health identifier,” or medical ID, would save many lives and improve the overall health of most Americans. He maintains that complete computerization of each individual’s health records would ensure that data from different places could be brought together quickly and accurately when needed. Orentlicher contends that strict privacy safeguards required to protect confidentiality could be put in place without difficulty; it is easier to limit access to computer files than to paper records. Orentlicher teaches at the Indiana University schools of law and medicine at Indianapolis.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What act called for the creation of a “unique health identifier,” according to the author?
2. In Orentlicher’s opinion...