Week 13- 11/15 and 11/17

This week we continued with our discussions about how the internet is used for social change. It is very interesting understand the connection between different topics. My topic was about how the internet is used in health care. It is fascinating all the different ways that the health care industry is using the internet. One of the things the article I read mentioned was the Visible Human Project created by the National Library of Medicine. It is a 3D representation of anatomically normal male and female that allows viewers to see MRIs and cryosectioned images of the whole body. Many medical centers now have their monitored bed forms online with real- time information so the doctors can see the information without having to physically be in the room. These programs act as a notification system for critical events. The health care professionals are utilizing these programs as well as many other aspects of the internet to improve patient care and knowledge. Another interesting topic discussed was the Suitcase project which would set up a shadow internet anywhere including repressive countries where the government shuts down communication in times of crisis.