HealthInfoNet is being billed as a system that will reduce doctor errors and save money. It's a secure computer program that allows doctors to see which tests patients have had recently, which medications they're on, and any allergies they might have.

HealthInfoNet is hoping 80 percent of providers will join the system withn two years, and every doctor's office in the state in about 5 years. The Obama administration also will be watching the program as a possible model for a national records system. But it is expensive. HealthInfoNet has spent 6 million dollars on its demonstration phase, and expects it wil need another $12 million to connect 80 percent of physicians. Connecting the remaining 20 percent will be the most difficult because they will likely be in rural areas that have to transition from paper records to a computerized system.

The providers involved in a pilot use of the program are Central Maine Medical Center, Maine Health, Eastern Maine Health, Martin's Point Health Care, Franklin Memorial Hospital, Maine General Medical Centers, and the Maine Center For Disease Control.

HealthInfoNet also has worked with advocates for patient privacy to make sure their concerns are addressed.