Learning Healthcare Systems and Internet Research

A learning healthcare system (LHS) uses digital technology in medicine and aims to provide fair, effective, and efficient healthcare. The main concept behind an LHS is to use the data generated during patient care to create a continuous learning process integrating healthcare provision and research. Recently, the internet and social media have also become valuable tools for health research. They serve as a source of data, a way to recruit participants, a platform for engaging with patients, and a means for patients to control their health information. Internet and social media research have the potential to enhance healthcare. However, there is a question about whether the ethical framework that applies to LHSs can be used for the use of the internet and social media. In my speech, I will examine the ethical and regulatory challenges that arise when LHSs collect data online.