Microsoft unveiled a new version of its software for aggregating health records that makes it easier for patients and doctors to share information electronically.

The new release, Almaga Unified Intelligent System 2009, offers bi-directional integration with Microsoft’s HealthVault, an online repository where people can store and manage their health and wellness information, said Steve Shihadeh, a vice president in the Microsoft Health Solutions Group.

Microsoft is also adding a Web interface to the system so health-care practitioners who have the right to access information from Almaga can do so through a Web portal. The company also has added new features to the system, one of which that allows images such as X-rays and MRIs to be stored.

Microsoft’s update to Almaga comes just as the U.S. government has approved an economic stimulus package with US$19 billion in funds available for health-care professionals to develop better IT systems in the health-care industry.

Microsoft, along with other tech giants like Google and IBM, has been at the forefront of helping to improve health-care IT systems. Microsoft executives have even testified before the U.S. Senate to advise the government on the issue.