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Privacy and the quantified self: A review of U.S. health information policy limitations related to wearable technologies

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  • Nancy H. Brinson
  • Danielle N. Rutherford

Abstract

As Americans increasingly integrate quantified self‐health and fitness tracking (QSHFT) technologies into their lives, the data collected by these devices offer to not only help users to live healthier lives, but also present opportunities for interested parties to identify and target them based on their health‐related behaviors. Clinicians, employers, health insurers, data brokers, marketers, and litigators have all expressed interest in accessing individuals' QSHFT data for a variety of purposes. Existing policies related to the collection, aggregation, and use of these data do not consistently address and protect individual health privacy concerns. Indeed, U.S. lawmakers recently proposed two separate bills designed to correct this deficiency. The purpose of this review is to examine current motivations, practices, policies, and regulations related to QSHFT data, identify areas where individuals' health information privacy is currently being compromised, and propose specific solutions to address this escalating area of privacy concern.

Suggested Citation

  • Nancy H. Brinson & Danielle N. Rutherford, 2020. "Privacy and the quantified self: A review of U.S. health information policy limitations related to wearable technologies," Journal of Consumer Affairs, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 54(4), pages 1355-1374, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jconsa:v:54:y:2020:i:4:p:1355-1374
    DOI: 10.1111/joca.12320
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Hayes, Jameson L. & Brinson, Nancy H. & Bott, Gregory J. & Moeller, Claire M., 2021. "The Influence of Consumer–Brand Relationship on the Personalized Advertising Privacy Calculus in Social Media," Journal of Interactive Marketing, Elsevier, vol. 55(C), pages 16-30.

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