Ventura Backs Data Collection -

Ventura Backs Data Collection - In perhaps a final bit of proof that Ventura was the DFL-iest "populist" we've ever elected, our soon-to-be-ex governor okayed the biggest data collection act in Minnesota history.

The Strib article says:

Some groups consider the plan an attack on privacy, but health officials say sensitive details would be encrypted to protect confidentiality.

Note the artful dodge; "Encryption" does indeed protect data - from outsiders. But outsiders aren't the ones that "some groups" are worried about! It's the state itself that is the problem, here - as they collect private data to help them make "policy" decisions.

The Strib goes on to say:

The department sees the database as a tool in tracking health-care quality around Minnesota and a way to spot troubling trends early. Other states have similar systems already in place.

The medical database would include everything from who has a stroke, an abortion or a surgery to who takes Prozac and other prescription drugs.

So the state can figure out who is doing what, with what - and feed that data into the maw of the state's regulatory machine.

The Strib just doesn't get it.

Posted by Mitch at December 30, 2002 12:20 AM