Google is now offering people electronic access to their medical records and other health-related information.

The Web search leader announced the public launch of Google Health during a webcast on Monday. It lets users import records from care providers and pharmacies.

Google says it will help people keep all their health information in one secure place. The company allows people to import current records from their health providers, but Google did not immediately say how many clinics, pharmacies and others are participating. Major chains such as CVS, Walgreens and Longs are included.

A frequently asked questions page points out that the service is not really meant as a new way to search for health information, though it can help keep an eye out for hazardous drug interactions.

Google tested the service by storing medical records for a few thousand patient volunteers at the not-for-profit Cleveland Clinic.

"It's a really exciting day for us. We're really happy to be able to offer this service to all our users," Marissa Mayer, the Google executive overseeing the health project, said in the webcast.

The service is free.