Tools will empower people to manage their health and become engaged with their providers in a new model of healthcare.

ROCHESTER, Minn., and REDMOND, Wash. — Mayo Clinic Health Solutions and Microsoft Corp.’s Health Solutions Group today announced that they have entered into a strategic agreement to collaboratively develop tools that will empower people to manage their health and become engaged partners with their providers in a new model of healthcare.

As leaders in their respective industries, both organizations recognize the potential for technology solutions to help bridge the gaps in the healthcare system, to facilitate closer patient-to-physician connections, and to allow patients and consumers to better manage their health and wellness information. The collaboration will benefit from Microsoft’s significant technology expertise and Mayo Clinic’s experience in healthcare.

The organizations hope to announce further details of the project before the end of 2008.

“We are committed to finding new technology solutions that put the patient and consumer in control,” said Dr. Brooks Edwards, chief medical officer, Mayo Clinic Health Solutions. “Our work with Microsoft is an exciting opportunity to create tools that empower the patient to be in the very center of their own healthcare environment.”

“Consumers demand and deserve tools that make their lives easier, facilitate communication, and help them take action to manage their health,” said Peter Neupert, corporate vice president, Microsoft Health Solutions Group. “Building on the Microsoft HealthVault platform, our groups are committed to providing individuals with solutions that are dynamic, secure and focused on the needs of the user, in order to effectively improve health and well-being.”