The Resolution Will Be Videoed

The nation's health IT czar is once again turning to the private sector to find innovative ways of spreading the word about the benefits of health technology.

This time the topic is how technology can help individuals set and meet health goals. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT's "Healthy New Year Video Challenge" asks people to share a resolution for improving their own or someone else's health. The challenge is to create videos that show how they will use technology to achieve and maintain their resolutions.

Entrants are encouraged to create videos that are "creative, inspiring and instructive" and relatable to others. Any health-related topic is fine, including quitting smoking or drinking, losing weight, reducing stress or managing a chronic condition.

Examples suggested by ONC include:

• I will set up an online personal health record for myself (or another family member) so I can have all of my health information conveniently stored in one place.
• I will ask my doctor for a copy of my own health records -- electronically if available -- and help him or her to identify any important information that may be missing or need to be corrected.
• I will use an electronic pedometer to help me track my physical activity and will try to take 10,000 steps per day.
• I will find an app on my smartphone to help me track my food intake so I can lose 10 pounds by my high school reunion.