ALSO NOTED: Google Health launch set for early '08; Free EMRs for Vermont MDs; and much more...

> Google has announced that it will launch its Google Health initiative in early 2008. Article

> Vermont's doctors may soon begin getting EMR systems, courtesy of a state-backed nonprofit. Article

> Three central Pennsylvania hospitals and health systems have come together to form their own HIE. Article

> California has passed a new law barring the forced implantation of RFID chips into unwilling people. RFID chip maker VeriChip backed the measure. Article

> CMS has named a contractor for its upcoming PHR pilot in South Carolina. Article

And Finally...  Do you want your health plan to dig into its data and pinpoint unique health risks for you? Someday, you may have no choice. Article